Does a runner have to go to second base in baseball?

Answer by  pz09 (43)

This depends. If a runner is on first and the batter hits a grounder, then yes for this is called a force out pending he does not make it in time. If its a pop fly, then the runner does not have to go and would be wise to stay.

Answer by  JB28 (285)

In theory, there are two instances in which a runner would have to go to second base. A groundrule double would be one instance. Another would be if their is a runner on his team wishing to occupy first base as the result of a hit, walk, etc. Overall, a runner would always want to advance as far as possible.