Definition: Tagging up is a rule where a base runner must stay on or return to their base until a fly ball is caught by a fielder. Once the catch is made, the runner is allowed to try to run to the next base.
If a runner leaves the base before the ball is caught, the defense can throw the ball back to that base to get them out. Tagging up is most common when there is a runner on third base; they wait for the outfielder to catch a long fly ball, then sprint home to score as soon as the ball hits the fielder’s glove.
Example: The runner on third base waited for the catch and then tagged up, sprinting to home plate to score the run.
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