Is this a legal "tag-up"?

Question

Say a runner is on base (we'll say third) and the batter hits a pop-up to the outfield. Can the runner move behind the base (towards the left-field pole), then get a running start, so that when the outfielder catches the ball, the runner is already moving forward, tagging the base (but running through it) just after the ball is caught?

I would think it is because the base is still tagged after the ball is caught, but it may not be because the runner slightly strays from the base path.

Please specify if you are guessing or if you know.

Answer 1

New Yorker is right in that it is not legal to do so, but it has nothing to do with being "out of the baseline". Leaving the baseline IS allowed unless a runner is avoiding a tag. Rule for leaving the base line is 7.08 (a)(1) - Any runner is out when he runs more than three feet away from a direct line between bases to avoid being tagged unless his action is to avoid interference with a fielder fielding a batted ball.



The specific rule for your situation is 7.10. Note that the play must be appealed, just like a runner leaving early.



7.10 Any runner shall be called out, on appeal, when-

(a) After a fly ball is caught, he fails to retouch his original base before he or his original base is tagged; "Retouch," in this rule, means to tag up and start from a contact with the base after the ball is caught. A runner is not permitted to take a flying start from a position in back of his base.

Answer 2

Look it probably is legal but it would make very difficult on the umpire and player to hit the bag at the right time because if he doesn't hit the bag at the perfect time then there is no use. Let me explain, if he catches it then he starts to run then you are behind on what you could have been if you did it normal. But if he times it up and leaves early then they touch 3rd and hes out or he has to go back. There really is no risk needed if they just did it the way its supposed to.

Answer 3

No, he's out of the base path.



Also, why would ever even want to do that? That just increases the distance between you and home plate.

Answer 4

Fozzy for the win!

Answer 5

no