tag play

[Dakota]

Originally Posted by johnsonrod

i was also told that if a fielder, who is undoubtedly securely possessing the ball attempts a swipe tag on a runner, and the instant after the swipe tag is made, the ball comes out, that the runner is safe. it was that response that confused me bc it seemingly contradicted the same person earlier sentiment that a runner would be out even if the ball came out after the tag.

You're trying to count nits. Since it is judgment, the criteria is all that can be really described. You aren't going to get an answer to the question, How much time "after" is required for the runner to be out? The rule says "none"; the reality says "judgment."

In the MLB clip, in slow motion, I'd say the runner would be out in softball. Others here disagree (judgment as to when the catcher lost control - during the tag or after). In real time, hard to say what would actually be called. Again, judgment based on what the actual plate umpire actually saw.