Al,
The PU was right.
For the tag of the base to be legal, the fielder must have "secure possession" of the ball while touching the base.
I believe it is FED that has a case play that supports the position that it is possible for the fielder to have "secure possession", even though a portion of the ball may also be touching the ground.
Now if I'm umpiring the game, I damn sure am going to make him "lift it clean" before I rule on the play. If he does, the runner is out. If he doesn't, the runner is safe.
JM
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Finally, be courteous, impartial and firm, and so compel respect from all.
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