The biggest key in a rundown is to make the runner commit by sprinting at him so that he is forced to turn and run. When the runner is in the tag zone (about 15 feet away), the receiver will call for the ball. When the receiver calls for the ball, the chaser must throw it to him unless he is already close enough that he can tag the runner out on his own. After the throw, the chaser should move to the side away from the baserunner to avoid obstruction. The receiver should move through the catch to create some momentum. This will make it almost impossible for the runner to stop from a full sprint and change direction without being tagged out. The receiver will catch the ball and apply the tag with the ball in the glove (and with two hands for extra security if the play allows). After making the tag, look for the next play if other runners are on base.

Ideally, a rundown should end in an out after one throw but this is not always possible. When the rundown starts with the runner somewhat far from the fielder, the fielder might not have the opportunity to make the runner commit. The receiver will still call for the ball when the runner nears the tag zone, move through the catch, and then sprint at the runner to make him commit. At this point, everything discussed above applies.