Major League Pickleball Finalizes Roster Moves Ahead of 2026 Season's Conclusion

Major League Pickleball has completed its final waiver period for the 2026 season, making significant roster changes as teams finalize their lineups. The Miami Pickleball Club, California Black Bears, and Orlando Squeeze were among the teams making strategic moves. With the waiver system allowing teams to claim UPA contracted players, the rosters are now set for the closing stretch of the season. Learn more about the league's unique format and competitive structure.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 22, 2026, 14:13 IST

MLP Completes Final Waiver Period

On July 21, Major League Pickleball (MLP) wrapped up its fifth and final waiver period for the 2026 season, during which teams made crucial roster adjustments. The Miami Pickleball Club initiated the period by claiming Anderson Scarpa and releasing Zane Ford. Following this, the California Black Bears utilized their second selection to bring in Craig Johnson, while letting go of Joey Wild. As the waiver period progressed, the Black Bears made another strategic move by acquiring Martin Emmrich after he became available, waiving Craig Johnson in the process. In between these transactions, the Orlando Squeeze claimed Greg Dow and waived Martin Emmrich, which allowed the Black Bears to secure Emmrich with their final selection.

MLP's waiver system permits teams to replace players on their roster with UPA contracted players who are not currently part of an MLP roster. Interested teams must submit a minimum bid of $1,000 before each waiver period. The order of selection is based on the highest bid, continuing until all teams pass. Teams are only charged their bid amount if they successfully claim a player, and a separate fee is required for each claim. Only players under UPA contracts and not already on an MLP roster were eligible for claims during this period. Players acquired through waivers this season cannot be retained by teams in subsequent years, according to league regulations. With the final waiver period concluded, MLP rosters are now set as teams gear up for the final stretch of the 2026 season.

About Major League Pickleball (MLP)
Major League Pickleball (MLP) stands as the leading professional team-based pickleball league, featuring 20 local teams and over 100 of the sport's top-ranked players. Teams compete in regular season events to earn standings points, all aiming for the league championship. MLP employs the innovative MLPlay™ format, which includes co-ed team competitions featuring women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles games, blending individual talent with teamwork.