What is tagging up in baseball?

In baseball, tagging up refers to a base runner returning to their original base after a fly ball has been caught by a fielder. The runner must touch their original base before attempting to advance to the next base. This is done to prevent being picked off or doubled off if the fly ball is caught and the runner is caught off the base.

Tagging up is a fundamental part of baserunning strategy and is commonly used in situations where a fly ball is hit deep into the outfield. Runners will typically take a few steps off their base as the ball is caught, then quickly return to tag up before deciding whether to advance to the next base.

Tagging up can be a risky play, as the runner must judge whether they can safely advance to the next base after the catch is made. If the fielder has a strong arm or is in a good position to make a throw, the runner may decide to stay put at their original base rather than risk being thrown out trying to advance.

Overall, tagging up is an important aspect of baserunning strategy in baseball and can often make the difference between scoring a run or making an out on a fly ball.