The Lost Art of the Bunt: Why It Still Matters
In today’s power-hitting era, the bunt often feels like a forgotten relic. But smart teams and savvy players know that bunting remains a crucial weapon for manufacturing runs, advancing runners, and putting pressure on the defense. Mastering the art of the bunt can significantly elevate your game and contribute to team success.
Sacrifice Bunt Fundamentals
The sacrifice bunt’s primary goal is to advance a runner (or runners) into scoring position. Here’s the breakdown:
- Stance: Square around early, facing the pitcher. Don’t wait until the last second – show your intentions.
- Bat Position: Hold the bat loosely at the top of the strike zone, almost parallel to the ground.
- Angle: Angle the bat slightly downward towards your intended target (first base line for advancing a runner from first, third base line for advancing from second).
- Contact Point: Let the ball come to the bat. Don’t jab at it. Aim to make contact with the ball on the top half of the bat, deadening the impact.
- Footwork: As you make contact, take a small step towards your target, helping direct the ball.
Bunting for a Hit: The Sneaky Surprise
The bunt for a hit is a high-risk, high-reward play. It’s all about deception and speed.
- Disguise: Show bunt late. Stay in your regular hitting stance as long as possible to catch the defense off guard.
- Placement is Key: Aim for the “dead zones” – areas where fielders have the longest distance to cover. Usually down the lines, or sometimes a “push bunt” over the pitcher’s head towards second base.
- Speed is Essential: Explode out of the batter’s box the instant you make contact. Your running speed is your greatest asset here.
- Drag Bunt (Lefty Advantage): Left-handed hitters have a natural advantage with the drag bunt. They’re already moving towards first base as they make contact.
Drills to Improve Your Bunting
- Soft Toss Bunting: Have a partner soft toss balls to you, focusing on bat angle and placement.
- Machine Bunting: Practice bunting against a pitching machine to simulate game-speed pitches. Vary the location.
- Target Practice: Set up targets (cones, buckets) on the field and practice bunting towards them.
- Live Bunting: Incorporate bunting into live batting practice situations to develop game-like reactions.
- Sprint Work:Because speed is a factor in bunting for a hit, be sure to add some sprint work to your training to improve your base running!
The Mental Game of Bunting
Bunting requires confidence and focus. Don’t be afraid to lay one down, even with two strikes (unless it’s a foul, of course!). Embrace the challenge and understand that a successful bunt can be just as valuable as a hit.
Mastering the bunt adds another dimension to your offensive game. It gives your team more options and keeps the defense guessing. Become a complete player – become a bunting expert!
