OBR requires a live ball in order to accept an appeal. Rule 5.12(B) states “After the ball is dead, play shall be resumed when the pitcher takes
his place on the pitcher’s plate with a new ball or the same ball in his possession and the plate umpire calls “Play.” The plate umpire
shall call “Play” as soon as the pitcher takes his place on his plate with the ball in his possession.” There is no reference to the batter being needed in making the ball “live” so you may do this action with just the defense. Once you have made the ball “live” the defense can initiate a proper appeal that the BR missed 2nd base and his run will be disallowed, and others, if applicable.
