A tag is a defensive action used to get a baserunner out during play. The fielder must touch the runner with the ball or the glove holding ball. Tags are necessary when there is no force play at the specific base bag. The runner is out the moment the ball or glove makes physical contact. A shortstop catches the ball and tags a runner sliding into the second base. This out happens because the runner was not forced to run by the hitter. Fielders must maintain a firm grip on the ball while performing the tag motion. Runners try to slide around the tag to reach the base bag safely. Mastering the tag is a fundamental skill for every infielder on the softball field.
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