Double plays are crucial in every game. It allows fielders to out two base runners in one play. The 3-6 double play happens when the first baseman fields the batted ball, steps on the first base to force out the batter. The player then throws the ball to the shortstop, who then tags out the runner.
The Reason Behind the Name
In baseball, the nine positions in the field are labeled with the number corresponding to the position. The first baseman who covers the first base is known as the 3, while the shortstop who is situated between the second and third base is known as the 6 as it is the sixth position in a baseball field. So basically, the 3-6 double play is a play from the first baseman or the 3 to the shortstop or the 6, hence the name of the double play.The role of the 3
So much of the infield plays depend on the first baseman. In this play, the 3 must field the ball and cover the bag. The batter who runs to the first base is forced out since he cannot go back to the home plate.The role of the 6
The 3 throws the ball to the 6, then tags to out the base runner. The shortstop, often known as the best defensive player in the team cover, either the second base and third base.In a force-out, the fielder only needs to step on the bag. In the instance of a non-force situation, the fielder must tag the runner with the hand inside the glove where the ball is securely held. He cannot tag with the gloved hand while the ball is on the hand without a glove. A non-force situation is when the runner is not forced to the next base.
In a 3-6 double play, the shortstop deals with a non-force situation. He must therefore tag the runner to retire him.
It is also important for tagging and for the 3-6 double play for the shortstop to tag with the hand wearing the glove. The ball must be in the gloved hand to make a legal tag. The shortstop cannot tag with his gloved hand while the ball is in the other hand.