Tag Technique: How Youth Infielders Win the Call at Second Base

On a bang-bang play, the umpire calls what he sees. A popped tag with the ball shown in the glove looks like an out. A glove laid on the runner looks unsure.

Setup

The catcher throws to second. Put a cone on the back side of the base, where the runner slides. Fielders hold a ball in their throwing hand so they tag with one hand.

1. Who's covering

Shortstop and second baseman cover their mouths and look at each other. Open mouth means "you." Closed means "me."

2. Get there early

Set up 8–10 feet from the base. Be on the bag by the time the ball leaves the catcher's hand.

3. Straddle and get low

Right foot toward the mound, left toward center field. Butt down, chest down, glove just over the ground. Work low to high.

4. Pop the tag

Watch the ball in. Eyes find the runner's foot. One-hand tag, like whipping a towel. Pop the glove up toward your chest, show the umpire, and move on.

Progression

No ball → flip from 3 feet → full distance → fungos in the air, on one hop and two hops.