If a runner misses second base and is standing on third base, what must the defensive team do to appeal?

To appeal a missed base, the defensive team must make a physical play on the runner by touching him with the ball. This action establishes a legal appeal, as it demonstrates the defensive team's intention to challenge the runner's position on the base. When the runner misses second base and stands at third, the defense must actively engage by touching the runner with the ball, which serves as a definitive assertion that the runner did not legally touch the previous base.

This rule emphasizes the importance of an observable action taken by the defensive team to ensure the appeal is recognized and enforced by the umpire. Simply verbalizing the missed base does not constitute a formal appeal, nor does requesting time without physically acting on the runner. Allowing the play to continue without addressing the missed base would forfeit the opportunity to correct the oversight, impacting the flow of the game and the possibility of securing an out. Overall, the necessity of physically touching the runner underscores the physicality and direct engagement required in baseball's appeal process.