SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/base-automatic-runner

In MLB regular season games, how does each extra inning start?

With a runner already on second base.

Start playing free

  1. With a runner on second base ✔
  2. With a runner on first base
  3. With the bases loaded

Why: Every half inning after the ninth starts with an automatic runner on second base in MLB regular season games. It began in 2020 and became permanent in 2023. The postseason does not use it.

Huh, didn't know that: The runner is the player who batted just before that inning's leadoff hitter, or a pinch runner.

The dad joke
Why was the runner on second so relaxed? He got a head start.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: With a runner on second base. Every half inning after the ninth starts with an automatic runner on second base in MLB regular season games. It began in 2020 and became permanent in 2023. The postseason does not use it.

  1. MLB Glossary: Automatic Runner www.mlb.com/glossary/rules/designated-runner
    All half-innings after the conclusion of the ninth inning begin with an automatic runner on second base.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. Official Baseball Rules, 2026 Edition (MLB) mktg.mlbstatic.com/mlb/official-information/2026-official-baseball-rules.pdf
    Each half-inning following the ninth inning will begin with a runner on second base
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessIn MLB, where is the top of the strike zone?Sports & FitnessA pitch hits the ground, then bounces through the strike zone. The batter does not swing. What is it?Sports & FitnessHow many strikes does it take for a batter to strike out?

That's stuff everyone should know.