Melbourne Aces depart ABL for new opportunities overseas

The Australian Baseball League will meet with its remaining clubs following the sudden shock withdrawal of one of its biggest franchises to decide the future of the competition.

The Melbourne Aces are leaving the ABL. Photo: TANIA CHALMERS - SMP IMAGES

Australian Baseball League officials are remaining tightlipped over the future of the competition following the withdrawal of the Melbourne Aces.

The Aces announced on Monday they would be removing themselves for next season, instead opting for international competitions.

It’s a move which has left just five teams for the 2025-26 campaign including the Adelaide Giants, Brisbane Bandits, Canberra Cavalry, Perth Heat and Sydney Blue Sox.

The league had previously expanded to eight teams for the 2018-19 season including Auckland Tuatara and Geelong-Korea, although both folded in 2023.

When asked where the future of the ABL lies following the Aces’ exit, Baseball Australia boss Glenn Williams said “we will continue to work with teams on planning for the ABL for season 25-26”.

There are concerns surrounding the financial stability of at least one other club but Williams said planning for next summer was still going ahead.

“We have a strong relationship with all license holders and are working with them to plan for ABL season 2025/2026,” he said.

In its statement confirming its departure, the Melbourne Aces said the decision was made as a result of years of discussion with the ABL regarding “unresolved concerns”.

In response, Williams said it would be “inappropriate” to comment on those concerns.

The Aces confirmed they will compete in the Ulsan KBO Fall League in Korea in October later this year with home games against Korean teams in January and February 2026 to follow.

“However, this is far from the end—it’s the start of something even bigger,” the club said.

“This transition allows us to take the club to new heights, providing fans with an even better baseball experience.

“The Aces ownership, management, coaches, and players remain committed to delivering top-level competition and entertainment.”

The Melbourne Aces social media channels were flooded with comments after the decision was revealed — a move which leaves the ABL with just five teams.

“While the Melbourne Aces are trying to frame their withdrawal from the Australian Baseball League (ABL) as an exciting new chapter, the reality is far more disappointing and damaging — not just for Melbourne, but for the entire Australian baseball community,” Scott Deakes wrote in a lengthy comment.

“This move reflects a short-sighted and selfish decision that prioritises individual ambition over the greater good of the sport in Australia.”

Another wrote: “Wait what?? We just purchased memberships and merchandise!! I’ve just wasted all this money”

In response to any comments, the Aces social media team wrote “Melbourne Aces will be playing on. We will keep the Melbourne Aces as an active baseball club. Over the coming summer we have already committed to a number of games”.

Baseball Australia president thanked Brett and Shaun Ralph and the club for their commitment to the competition.

“The Aces have been major contributors to baseball for a significant period,” he said.

“It is a loss to see them withdraw from the league. We thank the Ralph family, and everyone involved in the Aces organisation for their contribution to baseball in Australia.

“The Aces have achieved tremendous success both on and off the field over many years.”

Originally published as Melbourne Aces depart ABL for new opportunities overseas