I saw an unusual play the other day in a baseball game. The one at bat hit a very long fly ball. The man at first rounded second as the ball was caught. Instantly, the runner returned to first, apparently in plenty of time.

Then, shortly thereafter, the runner was called out. For what reason you might ask? Because he didn’t touch 2nd base on the way back to 1st.

I must admit it caught me by surprise. I wasn’t aware of the rule. Moreover I had no idea of the runner’s mistake.

I instantly thought that there should be a real object lesson there, though I am having trouble determining what it might be. I thought about the figurative bases that I missed from time to time during my life. Indeed, it seems there is a saying, “Remember to touch all the bases.”

It sounds like a good idea. I guess it means we should pay attention to the details. It sounds like a good idea to me. I have seen, from time-to-time people incredibly detail oriented. As a person only “big picture” oriented, I must say I have always admired those who really paid attention to details.

Looking back on the base runner, I suspect that he wished he had been a little more detail oriented. It does make me wonder if he was aware about the rule. I mean, he was a major league player. You would think someone would have told him. Maybe not. Regardless, he could have avoided the out, not to mention a bunch of embarrassment had he touched second on the way back to first.

Let’s extend the saying a little. Consider the home run. The home run is not complete until the hitter touches every base. Moreover, all those on base must touch the base in order and in sequence. The hitter may not go to 3rd or 2nd before 1st.

Odd how much baseball is like life. Maybe that’s a good reason for boys to play baseball. It sorta teaches them a little about life.

I was thankful that I was able to play. It taught me a lot about baseball… and life.