Base Running Basics: Tagging Up
Base runners play a fundamental role in the offensive side of softball. To win softball games, a team must score runs. To score runs, players must find a way to get on base, then move from base to base to get closer to and reach home plate to tally a run. Runs are precious in softball because, in order to win, a team must outscore one another. When runners get on base, a bunt, ground ball, or fly ball can move the runner safely to the next base depending on the number of outs.
Tagging up occurs in softball when a runner or runners on base advance to the next base on a ball hit in the air, often to the outfield, with less than two outs. The runner must be in contact with the base they started at and wait until the ball is caught, before advancing to the next base. If a runner leaves the base early, and the defensive team throws the ball back to the base the runner started at, the call is up to the umpire.
When tagging from first base or second base, make sure the ball is hit far enough in the outfield to advance. An outfielder throw to second base or third base is much shorter than a throw to the plate. Once the ball is hit in the air to the outfield, lead off the base and find the ball right away. Keep an athletic stance, that way you will be able to get back to the base and tag or advance to the next base on a dropped fly ball. If the ball is shallow, stay off the base and be ready to advance, if the ball falls. If the ball is hit deep into the outfield and you are leading off, immediately go back to the base and wait for the catch. Once the outfielder catches the ball, you should sprint to the next base and be ready to slide in safely.
When tagging from third base with less than two outs, once the ball is hit into the outfield, get back to the base right away. Some coaches teach their players to watch for the catch on their own from third base, while others instruct their players to listen for the coach to tell them when to go home. The second scenario may be a split second faster than the first because the player is looking straight ahead at home plate and will sprint forward toward home plate on command from the coach.
To be successful at tagging up in softball takes time and practice. It’s important for coaches to practice tagging up with players at practice, especially from third to home if the coach is going to tell the players when to advance. Keep in mind that every single run in softball is precious and every base runner plays a key role. Be smart on the bases. If you hesitate, don’t go. If you decide to go, be sure to commit and do whatever it takes to be safe. Never leave the bag early when tagging up because the opposing team and the umpire will likely catch you. Be aggressive and smart on the bases, because at the end of the day, smart base running wins games.
