What is an appeal to a specific base?

• A. A request to substitute a player.
• B. A legal play to challenge a runner for leaving a base too soon or for missing a base.
• C. A check of equipment compliance.
• D. A request for time.

Answer: (B)

An appeal to a specific base is a defensive move used to enforce baserunning rules by calling out a violation at a particular base, such as a runner failing to touch that base or leaving it before the ball is pitched. The defense signals the appeal by getting the ball to the base in question and informing the umpire that an appeal is being made. If the appeal is valid and observed, the runner is ruled out for that specific violation. This type of appeal is focused on one base, unlike other appeals or checks that might address different situations (like time or equipment). For example, if a runner failed to touch second base while advancing, the defense can make a base-specific appeal to second base to record the out.