What Is A Force Out In Baseball?
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A force out in baseball is defined as a play in which a runner is out because he is forced to advance by a following runner.
Definition of a force out
In baseball, a force out is when a runner is compelled to leave a base because the batter became a runner. A baserunner must attempt to advance if the batter becomes a runner, unless doing so would force another baserunner to leave his or her base. A force out can only occur when there are runners on base and only the batter-runner can be forced out. Advancement of other runners on base is ignored in regards to a force out.
When can a force out be called?
For a force out to be called, the defense must have the ball and the baserunner must be touching a base. If the baserunner is not touching a base, he is not considered to be forcible out and the play is ruled an infield fly. There are two situations when a force out can occur:
-A ground ball is hit to an infielder who steps on second base before the runner gets there. In this case, the second baseman would then throw to first to complete the double play.
-A fly ball is hit to an outfielder who catches it before the runner tags up at first base.
How does a force out compare to other outs in baseball?
There are three ways to make an out in baseball: by strikeout, by tag out, or by force out. A force out is when a runner is forced to vacate his base because another runner has occupied it. A force out can only occur when there is a runner on first base and less than two outs. When a force out happens, the batter is also out.
There are two types of force outs: double play force outs and fielder’s choice force outs. A double play force out occurs when the runner at first base is forced out and the following batter is also put out. This usually happens when the ball is hit to the shortstop or second baseman. A fielder’s choice force out occurs when the defense chooses to put out a different runner instead of the one who occupied first base. This usually happens when the ball is hit to the third baseman or outfielder.
Force outs are important because they often lead to double plays, which can be game-changing plays. Double plays are very difficult to execute and often require great effort from the defense. If you’re a fan of baseball, pay close attention the next time you watch a game – you might see a great double play that was executed because of a force out!
What is the difference between a force out and a tag out?
The difference between a force out and a tag out in baseball is that a force out can only be completed if there is a runner on base, while a tag out can occur at any time. A force out occurs when a runner is forced to advance to the next base because the batter hits the ball. A tag out occurs when a player is put out by being tagged with the ball.