Bunting Mechanics
Bunting mechanics refer to the grip, stance, and bat-angle technique used to deaden a pitched ball and direct it to a specific area of the infield, whether for a sacrifice or a base hit.
A proper bunt uses the top hand slid up the barrel for control, the bat angled at about 45 degrees, and the body turned to face the pitcher. The hitter "catches" the ball with the bat rather than pushing it, absorbing force to deaden the ball. Bat angle directs the ball: flatter sends it to third, steeper sends it to first. Good bunters can also bunt strikes and lay off balls — discipline is as important as technique. In fast-pitch, bunting against a rise ball requires keeping the bat angle level to prevent popping the ball up.
Example
The hitter squares early, slides her top hand to the barrel, angles toward first, and deadens the pitch down the first-base line with a soft catch of the ball on the bat.
Related terms
- Sacrifice BuntA sacrifice bunt is intentionally tapping the ball softly into play to advance a baserunner, accepting the batter’s out in exchange for moving the runner into scoring position.
- Drag BuntA drag bunt is a bunt for a base hit (not a sacrifice) where a fast runner — often a lefty slapper — begins moving toward first while dragging the bat through to deaden the ball.
- Short GameThe short game is fast-pitch’s collection of low-power, high-pressure offensive tactics — bunts, slaps, and push bunts — used to move runners and beat defenses with speed.
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