I have always been interested in multi-generation athletes. Today, I present what I believe is a first.
Ailana Agbayani is the daughter of former Major League Baseball player Benny Agbayani. Ailana was a star at the University of Oklahoma before joining the Chicago Bandits of Athletes Unlimited Softball League.
Many MLB players have had sons follow them into the pros. I believe Ailana is the first pro softball player to have a father who played in the MLB.
A native of Hawaii, Benny was selected by the New York Mets in the 30th round of the 1993 amateur draft. After making his MLB debut in 1998, Benny played in the Mets organization until being traded midway through the 2002 season, when he was traded to the Colorado Rockies. Near the end of the '02 season, he joined the Boston Red Sox. That would be it for his MLB career, although he went on to play several seasons in Japan. In the MLB over parts of five seasons, he batted .274 with 299 hits.
Infielder Ailana hit .397 in two seasons for the Sooners. With AU, between the Bandits and the All-Star Cup, Ailana hit .293 over 36 games. She also played solid defense.
Of course, when I first met Ailana, I had to mention I was a big fan of her father. He was even on my fantasy team. I am sure she hears that often, but she seemed genuinely appreciative either way.
The Bandits had an exciting season and Ailana was a big part of it. Hopefully, she will return for the 2027 season.
Go to theausl.com for more info on Ailana, the Bandits and the whole AU league. Check back here for my updates.
Ailana Agbayani and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2026.
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