If a runner scores after missing second base, what must the defense do to appeal the situation correctly?

To correctly appeal a situation where a runner scores after missing second base, the defense must touch the base with the ball. This action signifies that the defense is officially making an appeal regarding the missed base. When a runner misses a base, the defense needs to demonstrate that the runner failed to touch a specific base while advancing. By physically touching the base in question with the ball, the appeal is formally recognized, and the situation can be adjudicated by the umpires.

Other strategies, such as tagging the runner directly, would not be appropriate in this context since the issue at hand is the missed base, not something related to being out at a different location. Likewise, waiting until the next at-bat or only communicating verbally does not satisfy the requirement for a formal appeal, which necessitates an action taken on the base that was skipped. Thus, touching the base with the ball is the only correct method to ensure the appeal is properly executed and acknowledged.