Extra innings and the tiebreaker
WBSC · 2026–2029If the score is tied after 7 innings, play continues. From inning 8, each batting team starts its half-inning with a runner on second base. That runner is the player scheduled to bat ninth in that particular half-inning, not automatically the last player who made an out.
The rule
If the score is tied after 7 innings, play continues. From inning 8, each batting team starts its half-inning with a runner on second base. That runner is the player scheduled to bat ninth in that particular half-inning, not automatically the last player who made an out.
In practice
Normal substitution rules still apply to this runner. The runner can score without previously touching first base because the tiebreaker expressly starts them at second. If an incorrect runner is used, the defense can appeal after a pitch or play while that runner remains on base. Correcting the runner before a proper appeal avoids that penalty.
Sources & approach ↗