Runner on 1st & 2nd (less than 2 outs), one hopper hit to the second baseman very close to the bag (2nd base), runner on second does not move, what is the correct tag sequence? Bag first then runner, or runner first then bag?
Presuming that a double play is the desired end result, or at least getting the lead runner, the correct sequence is: [1] runner first and then [2] step on the bag ...
R2 is required to vacate the base to free it up for R1 from first going to second (and the batter runner heading to first) ... The base is no longer a "safe haven" for R2 so he may be tagged out regardless of whether or not he remains in contact with second base ... If you tag the base first, that removes the force for R2 to vacate, and he may stay at second base safely ...
See Rulebook §8.1 B. on page 44 regarding the obligation of R2 to vacate the base under your hypothetical ...
If there’s one out:
Tag the runner on second-that runner is out
Then step on second base-runner at first is forced out
You have a double play!!
If no outs:
Same tag and step on base as above.
Then throw to first.
If you do it quick enough you might have a triple play!!
