The Lost Art of Bunting: Why It Still Matters
In today’s power-hitting obsessed game, bunting might seem like a relic of the past. But smart teams and players know that a well-executed bunt can be a game-changer. It’s not just about sacrificing an out; it’s about applying pressure, moving runners, and creating scoring opportunities. This guide dives into both sacrifice bunting and bunting for a hit, giving you actionable techniques to add this valuable weapon to your arsenal.
Sacrifice Bunting: The Fundamentals
The sacrifice bunt’s primary goal is to advance a runner (or runners) into scoring position. It’s a selfless act that prioritizes the team’s success over individual stats.
- Square Early: Don’t wait until the last second. Show bunt early, giving yourself time to react to the pitch.
- Pivot, Don’t Jab: Instead of jabbing at the ball, pivot your body towards the pitcher from your regular stance. This provides better control and a softer touch.
- Angle the Bat: The angle of your bat dictates the bunt’s direction. Angle it slightly downward to keep the ball on the ground. To bunt towards first, angle the bat head slightly towards first base. To bunt towards third, do the opposite.
- “Catch” the Ball with the Bat: Think of it like catching a ball with your bat. Absorb the impact; don’t swing.
- Top Half of the Ball: Aim to make contact with the top half of the baseball. This helps ensure a ground ball.
- Watch the Ball All the Way: Keep your eyes focused on the ball from the pitcher’s hand to your bat.
Bunting for a Hit: The Element of Surprise
Bunting for a hit is a more advanced technique that requires speed, deception, and precise execution. It’s most effective against infielders playing deep or when the defense is not expecting it.
- Disguise Your Intentions: Show your bunt late – just before the pitcher releases the ball. The element of surprise is crucial.
- The “Drag” Bunt (Right-Handed Hitters): As you square, start moving your back foot towards first base. This “drag” motion helps you get a head start. Simultaneously, bunt the ball down the third-base line.
- The “Push” Bunt (Right-Handed Hitters): This is a more subtle technique. Aim to push the ball softly past the pitcher, towards the second baseman, who is often covering first on a potential sacrifice.
- Left-Handed Advantage: Left-handed hitters naturally have a shorter distance to first base, making drag bunts even more effective.
- Speed is Key: Even the best-placed bunt won’t work if you’re not fast. Work on your speed and acceleration.
Drills to Improve Your Bunting
- Soft Toss Bunting: Have a partner soft toss balls to you from a short distance. Focus on bat angle and “catching” the ball.
- Machine Bunting: If you have access to a pitching machine, set it to a moderate speed and practice bunting at different locations.
- Live Bunting Practice: The best practice is bunting against live pitching. Incorporate bunting into your batting practice sessions.
- Reaction Bunting: place cones in the infield at your target locations. Have a coach or teammate pitch to you and call out a direction (First Base side, Third base side, or “Push Bunt”) *just* as they are about to release. This will train your reaction speed.
Bunting is a valuable skill that can elevate your game. By mastering both the sacrifice and the bunt for a hit, you’ll become a more complete and dangerous offensive player. Don’t neglect this crucial aspect of baseball!
