: Skills & Drills: Offense

Bunting
The exception to the rule. Younger players will not want to bunt, and should not be burdened with this ‘team-only’ skill. Their ego is all ‘me’, not ‘us’.

The main reason for bunting the ball is to advance a runner into scoring position (2^nd base or beyond). The key here is to grip the bat lightly and keep the elbows relaxed to absorb the energy of the contact. Here are the details:

1. As soon as the pitcher begins their delivery, the batter ‘squares-up’ to the pitcher. This means the shoulders and hips are facing the pitcher. The body should be in a ready position, with the knees flexed and hips bent slightly forward. Note: The player cannot step on the plate or they are called out.
2. The bat is extended in front of the body and the top hand is extended up the bat about 12 inches. The player should not grip around the bat with the top hand, but support the bat with the thumb and forefinger behind the bat, so that contact is not made between the fingers and the pitch. Ouch!
3. The bat should be held roughly parallel to the ground. Use the arms to adjust to the height of the pitch, not the body or knees!
4. Keep your eyes on the ball. This is a one-time opportunity. The surprise of the bunt will be spoiled by bad execution.
5. Hit on top of the ball, with the bat angled towards third base. Every bunt must be on the ground. A pop-up bunt is usually an easy out and probably a double play. Absorb the shock of the impact with the elbows, allowing them to flex rapidly inward. Run like hell. They might beat the throw to first base. But don’t throw the bat! (Sorry, you haven’t met Mickey or Jake!)