Does the Run Survive the Appeal?

NFHS Timing Play And Appeal Play Challenge

Does the Run Survive the Appeal?

R2 and R3, two outs, base hit to left. R2 misses third on the way home, the batter-runner is tagged at second, and the defense may appeal the missed base at third.

Rule Focus

• Timing play
• Missed-base appeal
• Runner misses third
• Does the run count
• Two-umpire mechanics

Ruling Question

R2 clearly misses third. What do you have on this play?

1. The batter-runner is the third out, so no run can score once the tag is made at second.
2. Score R2, R3 run as they touched home before BR was tagged at 2nd.
3. Defense appeals touch at 3rd, R2,R3 do not score.
4. Defense appeals touch at 3rd, R3 scores. R2 is out on appeal.

Correct Ruling

With two outs, the tag on the batter-runner at second is a timing play. R3 can score before that out. If R2 missed third, the defense can properly appeal at third and cancel only R2's run.

Mechanics Follow-Up

Who is responsible for the touch at third?

1. Plate Umpire
2. Base Umpire