What is the result if a player steps on a base to tag a runner in a force out situation?

In a force out situation, when a defensive player steps on a base while tagging it with their foot or body—triggering a play—it results in the runner being declared out. A force out occurs when a runner is required to advance to the next base because the batter becomes a runner and occupies the base the runner is currently on. By stepping on the base, the defensive player fulfills their obligation of tagging the base, thereby preventing the runner from reaching it safely.

This rule is fundamental in baseball as it emphasizes the importance of the defense's ability to execute plays to remove runners from the bases. The action of stepping on the base to make the force out must occur before the runner reaches that base; otherwise, the runner would be safe. The successful execution of this play signifies that the offensive team has not advanced their runners safely, impacting the flow and strategy of the game.