How do you make and score this put out at second base

by Larry
(Colorado Springs, CO, USA)

Larry asked:With a runner on first the batter hits a fly ball to left centerfield.

The runner advances all the way to second base.

Thinking the ball would be caught he returns toward first base.

The ball is not caught and the fielder throws it to second base.

Because the runner was previously on second base, does this remain a force out or must the runner now be tagged?

Also is the play scored as a fielder's choice at that point?


Rick answered: Larry, thank you for your question.

Since the fly ball wasn't caught, the force still remains in effect, as the batter-runner has forced the base runner at first base to vacate.

The play would be scored as a fielder's choice.


Yours in baseball,

Rick