What does “Appeal Play” mean?

Definition: An appeal play is a situation where the defensive team formally notifies the umpire that a runner has missed a base, left early on a caught fly ball, or committed a rule violation that the umpire cannot call on their own. Why It Matters: Appeals keep baserunning honest. In competitive slo-pitch; especially tournaments; missed bases and early tag-ups are extremely common. A clean appeal can end innings or remove runs. Canadian Context: Most Canadian leagues (SPN, SPO, NSA Canada) follow similar appeal procedures: the defense must control the ball and present a clear verbal or physical appeal. Suggested Cross-Links: Tag-Up, Dead Ball, Live Ball, Runner Responsibilities