playing 3rd base

Question
what are the details in playing 3rd base? also when do you have to tag the runner coming to 3rd base?

Answer
Hello Analy

Basically you must TAG OUT runners who are not forced to run, simply standing on the base with the ball won抰 do. One example is you must tag out and base runner that is attempting to steal. Another example is, say a runner is at second base but first base is empty. When the next batter hits the ball and runs toward first, the runner on second doesn抰 have to advance if she doesn抰 want to, because no one is coming to occupy her base. If she does choose to head for third it抯 UNFORCED so you must tag her with the ball in hand or glove before she reaches the base to get her out.  


Since third base is closest to home, much of the action takes place along the third base foul line. Cooperation and communication between the third base player and the shortstop is important to stop steals from 2nd. The same close understanding and communication is necessary between the 3rd base player and the catcher.

Successful third base players realize they don't have time to wait for the ball to come to them. When a ball is hit in the direction of third base, the 3rd base player moves to the ball. The quicker she can retrieve the ball, the better her chances of throwing the runner out at first. In addition, if she has more time to throw, her throw will probably be more accurate. Overthrowing 1st base is a coach's nightmare.

3rd Baseman's Responsibilities include the following:

- cover bunts along the 3rd base line
- cover foul pop ups outside the 3rd base line
- cover 3rd base on most forced out plays
- back up return throws to the pitcher
- decide when to let a ball go foul and when to field a ball that could go foul along the 3rd base line
- catch shallow fly balls that are falling just behind third base (depending on where the 3rd base player is positioned when the ball is hit, this responsibility is shared with the short stop)