That's right, four outs recorded on a single play. It has never happened in the majors, and probably never will, because it would require some bizarre baserunning. But it could. Here goes:
Bases loaded, nobody out. For some unknown reason, the runners (including the one on third) are running on the pitch. Batter hits a line drive to short, which is caught for the first out. He throws to second to double up that runner, who throws to first to triple up that runner. Three outs, inning over.
But...
What about the runner on third, who has crossed the plate before the third out was recorded? Does his run count?
The answer is yes, UNLESS the defensive team, before leaving the field, throws to third to put that runner out, since he did not tag up after the catch. This fourth out would be necessary to negate the run.
Supposedly this play has actually happened in the minors, back in the 80's.
Bases loaded, nobody out. For some unknown reason, the runners (including the one on third) are running on the pitch. Batter hits a line drive to short, which is caught for the first out. He throws to second to double up that runner, who throws to first to triple up that runner. Three outs, inning over.
But...
What about the runner on third, who has crossed the plate before the third out was recorded? Does his run count?
The answer is yes, UNLESS the defensive team, before leaving the field, throws to third to put that runner out, since he did not tag up after the catch. This fourth out would be necessary to negate the run.
Supposedly this play has actually happened in the minors, back in the 80's.