Baseball is a sport that many Americans start playing at about the time they are in kindergarten. Additionally, many fans like to go to games and watch baseball on TV. Yet many of the rules escape even the most ardent followers of the game. This is especially true when it comes to base running. On plays where right-of-way is concerned, many fans--and even some players and coaches--are unsure of who has the right to the base path and who has to get out of the way.
Overrunning First Base
When the batter hits a ground ball to an infielder, he immediately sprints down the baseline as fast as he can. When done correctly, there will be no slowing down when he reaches first base. That's because the rules allow the base runner to overrun the base without penalty or risk. If the runner beats the throw to the base, he is safe even if he overruns the base. He is only at risk if he makes a move toward second base. Turning left (in the direction of second) does not constitute a move toward the base. You cannot overrun any other base and still have protection.
Tagging Up
A runner may advance to the next base even if an outfielder catches a flyball. According to the rules of the game, the runner may tag up and advance after the outfielder catches the ball. This is commonly done when there is a runner on third base and a fly ball is hit to the outfield. After the outfielder catches the ball, the runner may take off and the outfielder may try to throw him out. If the throw beats the runner to the plate and the catcher tags the runner before he touches home, he is out. If he reaches the plate before he is tagged, he is safe. Runners can tag up at any base.
Interference and Obstruction
A runner who is on base may not interfere with any fielder making a play as he moves to the next base. The runner has to avoid contact with a fielder who is either making a play or preparing to make a play. If the runner does not avoid contact, he has committed interference and will be called out by the umpire. If the interference occurred with an infielder who was preparing to make a double play, the umpire may declare both the runner and batter out and award the double play. A fielder who is not involved in the play may not get in the way of a base runner who is advancing. If the fielder gets in the way or collides with the runner, the umpire can call obstruction and award the base runner one or two bases at his discretion.
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