SCORING RUNS
QUESTION: In high school, baseball and softball, bases loaded, no outs; batter doubles to outfield as runner from third scores; runner from second misses third base but also scores and runner from first is thrown out advancing to third. Batter-runner misses first base in advancing to second. At end of play, defense appeals missed base at third. Ump calls runner out. Defense next appeals missed base at first. Ump calls batter-runner out for third out. Is the lead runner from third base allowed to score?
ANSWER: The original runner from third is not allowed to score when a batter-runner is declared out at first for the third out (BB and SB- Rule 9, Sec. 1, Art. 1, a).
QUESTION: The score is tied in the home half of the final inning. Bases are loaded with two outs; batter gains a ball four walk and touches first base as runner from third touches home plate for apparent winning run. Runner from second base advances and touches third base but runner from first base does not reach and touch second base thinking the game is over. Before the defense leaves the infield, the second base person asks for the ball and appeals runner not touching second base. Umpire agrees and calls runner out for third out. Is game over? Does run count?
ANSWER: In this play, awarded bases must be touched as walk forces runners to advance. When defense appealed missed base at second, this is considered a force play which results in the third out and run does not count and game continues (BB and SB- Rule 9, Sec. 1, Art. 1, b).
