Softball Baseline Rules: Understanding Runner Safety & Basepaths

Question
if a runner jumps over a tag at second base is the player considered out due to the baseline rule or is the player safe.

Answer
Hi Renee,

A "basepath" is a direct line between the runner's position and the base.  A "baseline" is an imaginary direct line between the bases and pretty much has nothing to do with anything.

If a defensive player is attempting to tag a runner, that runner has 3' on either side of the basepath to try to avoid the tag.  Go outside the basepath and they are out.

I don't see jumping over a tag as usually being outside the basepath so I would have a safe unless the jump took the runner more than 3' out of the basepath.

Mark