OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES

Rule 5.09Rule 5.09(b)(11) Comment (Rule 7.08( j) Comment): Runnerwho touches first base in overrunning and is declared safe bythe umpire has, within the intent of Rule 5.08(a) (Rule 4.09(a))“reached first base” and any run which scores on such a playcounts, even though the runner subsequently becomes the thirdout for failure to return “at once,” as covered in Rule5.09(b)(11) (Rule 7.08(j)).(12) In running or sliding for home base, he fails to touchhome base and makes no attempt to return to the base,when a fielder holds the ball in his hand, while touchinghome base, and appeals to the umpire for the decision;Rule 5.09(b)(12) Comment (Rule 7.08(k) Comment): This ruleapplies only where runner is on his way to the bench and thecatcher would be required to chase him. It does not apply to theordinary play where the runner misses the plate and thenimmediately makes an effort to touch the plate before beingtagged. In that case, runner must be tagged.(13) A play on him is being made and a member of his team(other than a runner) hinders a fielder’s attempt to field athrown ball. See Rule 5.09(b)(3) (Rule 7.11). For interferenceby a runner, see Rule 5.09(b)(3) (Rule 7.08(b)).(c) (7.10) Appeal PlaysAny runner shall be called out, on appeal, when:(1) After a fly ball is caught, he fails to retouch his originalbase before he or his original base is tagged;Rule 5.09(c)(1) Comment (Rule 7.10(a) Comment): “Retouch,”in this rule, means to tag up and start from a contact with thebase after the ball is caught. A runner is not permitted to take aflying start from a position in back of his base.(2) With the ball in play, while advancing or returning to abase, he fails to touch each base in order before he, or amissed base, is tagged;APPROVED RULING: (A) No runner may return totouch a missed base after a following runner has scored.(B) When the ball is dead, no runner may return to touch47