What is a tag up in baseball? A tag up in baseball is a fundamental base running play where a runner, after a fly ball is caught by a fielder, can advance to the next base only after the fielder has secured the ball and touched the base they are on, or has tagged the runner before they reach the base.
Baseball tagging is a crucial skill for both offensive and defensive players. On offense, tagging up correctly can mean the difference between being safe and out, and it often allows runners to advance an extra base or even score. On defense, mastering how to tag a runner involves precise footwork, accurate throws, and a keen understanding of the game. This guide will delve deep into the art of tagging in baseball, covering everything from the runner’s perspective to the fielder’s execution.
The Runner’s Advantage: When to Go and When to Wait
The decision to tag up is a calculated risk. Runners need to read the trajectory of the ball, the position of the fielders, and the speed at which they can reach the next base.
Reading the Fly Ball
h4: Judging the Depth and Trajectory
- Line Drives: These are often too low to the ground to tag up on. Runners usually need to be on their toes, ready to advance if the ball is dropped or if it skips past the fielder.
- Fly Balls: The higher and deeper the fly ball, the greater the opportunity to tag up. The farther the ball is hit, the more time the fielder has to catch it, and the more time the runner has to prepare.
- Pop-Ups: These are typically caught close to the infield or very shallow outfield. Tagging up on a pop-up is usually not advisable unless the ball is dropped.
h4: Observing the Fielder’s Position
- Fielder’s Angle: If a fielder is running away from the base to catch the ball, it usually means the ball is deep. This gives the runner more time.
- Fielder’s Reach: If a fielder has to make a spectacular diving catch, it suggests the ball is hit with significant force and trajectory.
The “Leap” and “Break”
h4: The Lead Off
Before a ball is hit, runners take a “lead.” This is the distance they can advance from the base without being tagged. The size of the lead depends on the situation, the pitcher, and the runner’s confidence.
h4: The Lead Off After a Catch
Once a fly ball is hit, the runner must return to the base they were on before the ball is caught. From that base, they can then attempt to advance once the ball is caught. This is where the “tag up” comes into play. The runner will typically “leap” off the base, with one foot slightly off the bag, ready to run.
h4: When to “Break”
The runner must wait for the ball to be legally caught. This means the fielder has possession of the ball in their glove. The runner can then “break” for the next base. The key is to anticipate the catch without leaving the base too early, which would result in an out if the fielder simply touches the base with the ball in their glove.
The Fielder’s Challenge: How to Tag a Runner
Defensive players must be proficient in the mechanics of making a tag. This involves receiving the ball cleanly, applying the tag correctly, and anticipating the runner’s movements.
Infield Tagging Techniques
Infielders often make tag plays in short distances, requiring quick reactions and precise movements.
h4: Receiving the Throw
- In front of the bag: Sometimes, an infielder will move off the base to receive a throw to cut off the runner’s path. They must then move back to the base or tag the runner before they reach the base.
- On the bag: More commonly, the infielder will position themselves on or slightly in front of the base, ready to receive the throw.
h4: The Mechanics of the Tag
- Secure the Ball: The fielder needs to get the ball securely into their glove.
- Apply the Tag: The tag is applied by touching the runner with the ball (while it is in the glove) or the glove itself. The fielder must maintain control of the ball.
- Footwork: Good footwork is essential. Fielders might block the base with their foot to prevent the runner from sliding past it while applying the tag.
Table 1: Common Infield Tag Situations
| Situation | Runner’s Action | Fielder’s Action | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground ball to SS | Runner advancing from 1st to 2nd | SS fields ball, steps towards 2nd, tags runner before base. | Secure fielding, quick footwork to the base, firm tag. |
| Pick-off attempt at 1st | Runner returning to 1st base | Pitcher throws to 1st, first baseman tags runner before base. | Accurate throw, first baseman anticipating runner’s slide. |
| Force play at 2nd (ground ball) | Runner from 1st to 2nd, runner from 2nd to 3rd | Ball to SS, SS steps to cover 2nd, tags runner before base. | Catch and tag in one motion, strong base coverage. |
Outfield Tagging
Outfielders have a longer distance to cover and often need to make a more deliberate tag.
h4: Throwing to the Base
- Accurate Throws: Outfielders must make accurate throws to the correct base. A strong, accurate throw is more important than a slower, less accurate one.
- Leading the Runner: Often, outfielders will throw the ball to a cutoff man or directly to the base, anticipating the runner’s path.
h4: Defensive Positioning for Tags
- Cutoff Men: Outfielders often use cutoff men (infielders) to relay the ball. The cutoff man positions themselves to receive the throw from the outfield and then make the throw to the base. This shortens the distance and increases accuracy.
- Base Coverage: The infielder covering the base needs to be in the correct position to receive the throw and make the tag. They should be ready to block the runner.
h4: The Tag Out Procedure
The official tag out procedure is straightforward: the fielder must touch the runner with the ball (in their glove) or the glove containing the ball.
- Runner in Motion: If the runner is sliding or running, the fielder needs to move the glove to where the runner is.
- Blocking the Plate: For plays at home plate, blocking the plate is a crucial defensive maneuver. The catcher can position themselves in front of home plate to prevent the runner from reaching it. However, they must still be in possession of the ball and apply the tag. The runner must also attempt to touch the plate.
h4: Tagging a Sliding Runner
This is one of the more challenging tag plays.
- Anticipation: The fielder needs to anticipate where the runner will slide.
- Stretching: The fielder will often stretch their glove towards the runner to make the tag before the runner reaches the base or plate.
- Protecting the Base: The fielder may use their foot to cover the base, forcing the runner to reach for the plate.
Table 2: Outfield Tagging Considerations
| Aspect | Importance | Execution |
|---|---|---|
| Throw Accuracy | Prevents runners from advancing on errant throws. | Focus on hitting the target (cutoff man or base). |
| Cutoff Man Positioning | Shortens throws, increases accuracy, and provides a relay. | Cutoff man should be positioned to receive the ball with a clear line to the base. |
| Base Coverage | Ensures the base is properly defended for the tag. | Infielder on base must be ready to receive the throw and apply the tag. |
| Tag Application | The act of touching the runner with the ball in the glove. | Secure grip on the ball, confident movement of the glove. |
| Fielder’s Footwork | Aids in blocking the base and applying the tag effectively. | Stepping into the tag, using the foot to prevent the runner from reaching the base. |
Strategic Tagging: Beyond the Basics
Tagging up isn’t just about catching the ball and touching the runner. It involves strategy, anticipation, and a deep knowledge of the game.
Advanced Runner Strategies
h5: Reading the Fielder’s Arm
Experienced runners can often tell if a fielder has a strong or weak arm by their setup and the way they throw. This can influence the decision to tag.
h5: The “Two-Thirds” Rule
A common guideline for tagging up is the “two-thirds” rule. If a fly ball is hit roughly two-thirds of the way to the outfield fence, it’s often a good opportunity to tag. This is a general rule and can vary greatly based on the depth of the outfield and the speed of the runner.
h5: The “Pop and Shoot”
This refers to a runner advancing on a fly ball caught by an infielder. If the infielder catches the ball and immediately throws to another base, the runner can often advance further than they would have on a normal tag up.
Advanced Fielder Strategies
h5: The “Fake Tag”
A fielder might fake a tag to make a runner hesitate. This is a risky move and can backfire if the runner doesn’t fall for it.
h5: The “Tag and Turn”
After making a tag, a fielder might quickly turn and throw to another base if there’s an opportunity for a double play.
h5: Communicating with Teammates
Good defensive communication is vital for successful tagging. Fielders need to call for the ball, communicate their intentions, and alert other players to the runner’s actions.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced players can make mistakes when tagging. Awareness of these common errors can help improve performance.
Runner Mistakes
- Leaving the Base Too Early: This is the most common mistake. Runners must wait for the ball to be caught.
- Not Being Ready to Run: Runners should be in a “ready stance” off the base, prepared to sprint as soon as the ball is caught.
- Misjudging the Fly Ball: Taking too long to decide whether to tag or not can result in being thrown out.
- Not Watching the Ball: Runners should keep their eyes on the ball until it is caught to gauge its trajectory and the fielder’s position.
Fielder Mistakes
- Poor Footwork: Stepping away from the base, not being in position, or not blocking the base can lead to a runner being safe.
- Inaccurate Throws: Off-target throws to bases or cutoff men can allow runners to advance.
- Dropping the Ball: Not securing the ball before applying the tag results in the runner being safe.
- Not Applying the Tag Firmly: A weak or missed tag can allow a runner to be safe.
- Blocking the Base Without the Ball: Fielders cannot block a base if they don’t have possession of the ball.
The Importance of Practice and Repetition
Mastering baseball tagging requires consistent practice. Drills focused on throwing accuracy, footwork, and decision-making are essential for both offensive and defensive players.
h4: Drills for Runners
- Lead-off and Tag-up Drills: Practice returning to the base and breaking for the next base on simulated fly balls.
- Situational Drills: Practice with coaches hitting fly balls to different parts of the outfield to simulate game conditions.
h4: Drills for Fielders
- Throwing Accuracy Drills: Focus on hitting targets at various distances.
- Infield Tag Drills: Practice receiving throws and applying tags to runners or mannequins.
- Outfield Relay Drills: Work on communication and accuracy with cutoff men.
- Blocking the Plate Drills: Practice proper positioning and technique for blocking home plate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can a runner advance on any fly ball?
No, a runner can only advance if the fly ball is caught by a fielder and then attempt to advance to the next base once the ball is secured. If the fly ball is dropped, the runner can advance at their own risk.
Q2: What is the penalty for leaving the base too early on a tag up?
If a runner leaves the base before the fielder legally catches the fly ball, they are out if the fielder tags them or touches the base they left with the ball in their glove.
Q3: Does the fielder have to touch the runner with the ball?
Yes, the fielder must touch the runner with the ball, which is typically contained within their glove. Simply touching the base with the ball is not sufficient if the runner is not on the base.
Q4: What is the difference between a force play and a tag play?
In a force play, a runner must advance because the batter becomes a runner and forces the preceding runner to move. In this situation, the fielder only needs to touch the base the runner is forced to advance to with the ball. In a tag play, the runner is not forced to advance, and the fielder must tag the runner with the ball to make an out.
Q5: Can a fielder intentionally block a runner without the ball?
No, a fielder cannot block a runner’s path or a base unless they are in possession of the ball. This is an interference call.
Q6: What is the “tag out procedure” at home plate?
At home plate, the catcher can block the plate to prevent the runner from scoring, but they must have possession of the ball to make the tag. The runner must also attempt to touch home plate.
Mastering baseball tagging is an ongoing journey. By focusing on proper technique, strategic thinking, and consistent practice, both runners and fielders can significantly improve their performance and contribute to their team’s success.