Final answer:
In a baseball game, with two outs, bases loaded, and a ground ball to the first baseman, the most reliable play is for the first baseman to step on first for the force out, ending the inning without any runs scoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
The situation described is one that occurs in a baseball game: 'Two outs, bases loaded, ground ball to the first baseman.' The first baseman has a few options in this scenario. These options depend on the game context, such as the score, inning, and speed of runners, but without additional context, some general advice can be given.
The safest and most straightforward play would be option a) Step on first for the force out. This ensures that the inning ends without a run scoring as long as the first baseman does it before the runner from third crosses home plate. This is typically the most reliable play.
Option b) Throw to second for a double play could be attempted if the ball was hit sharply enough to allow time for the second baseman to touch second base and then throw to first; however, this is riskier and not necessary with two outs since only one more out is needed to end the inning.
Option c) Throw home to get the runner on third might be considered if it's a force play at home, preventing a run from scoring, but generally, securing the sure out at first would be the priority in this situation.
Option d) Step on first and tag the runner coming from first would not be applicable here since stepping on first base already creates an out, and the play is dead after the third out, making the tag unnecessary.