Expert: Andrew Mullins - 5/8/2010

Question
QUESTION: N.F.H.S. Softball ---Runner on second. Pitcher pitches and runner on second heads for third.Catcher throws to the third baseman who catches the ball in the glove and then puts the glove with the ball on top of third base bag. Runner from second steps directly on top of fielders glove at third base. Is this a description of a tag out? Tag as I understand it is touching a player not touching a base with the ball or with the ball in the glove while they are(and this is the important part)  Not touching a base.

ANSWER: Tag out, pure & simple.....

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: If the third baseman tags a runner coming in to third and the runner is not touching a base----he is out. If a third baseman has a runner coming into third base and the runner  puts a foot on the bag and then is tagged---- he is safe.So why would the runner be out in my above example? If it was a force play I can see why the third baseman only has to touch the base. How about a tie for the base on a tag play. The runner wins and is safe. I need a better understanding.

Answer
Has nothing to do w/ where the runner is...If the runner is tagged PRIOR to getting to the bag in any way, shape, or form, he is out...You stated the runnersteps on the fielder's glove in the first example, he is out!!!!  In your follow up question, you stated he puts his foot on the bag & then is tagged.....Now he is safe, you changed the issue.....