Bunt And Run ~ The Short Game Adrenalin Rush!

Photo Bill Stanton

Bunt and run, the short game adrenalin rush! This one creates some instant excitement.

The short version of the hit and run, it is designed to move a runner two bases, as well as having the possibility of the hitter also getting a base hit.

Since the runner(s) are moving on the pitch, the thought is immediate for the defense that they will need to hurry. This has a way of transferring into mental, as well as physical miscues on the part of the defense.

Once the runner (s) start, the first concern becomes steal, and the coverage that must be created. With the added bunt, the communication and reaction gets more complicated. With the ball pushed up the third base line, the pitcher and 3B have to communicate who is fielding the ball, the other must get to third base.

All outfielders have a responsibility to backup somewhere, which does not always happen, even at the MLB level.

The catcher has to make a snap decision on where the play will be made, or the ball held because it is too late. More opportunities for a miscalculation. Properly executed, the odds for success are heavily on the side of the offense.

Another way to, "make your opponent play the game". If he is able to field the balls, make the throws, make the catches, move to all the required backups and execute all the correct communication calls and reactions, you have to tip your hat to him and say,"good job".

What You Are Hoping To See If You Are The Runner From First Base

Photo Bill Stanton

The photo depicts a look that the base runner wants to see, the 3B has come in to field the bunt, the pitcher has also. One will field the bunt, the other needs to cover back to 3B. When you see this, you can keep coming from first base to third base.

Runner On first

• Hitter is putting the ball on the ground, no matter what the pitch is. If it is not buntable, bring the bat back, which keeps the catcher back.



• Runner is going on the pitch. If there is no contact, it becomes a straight steal.



• Hitter is pushing the ball up the third base line, hard enough to make the third baseman field it.



• Runner comes hard to second, looking to go to third should no one cover third base when the 3B fields the ball. Base runner can read this situation and turn and come to third, or hold at second.



• This play is designed to get the runner to 3B. A well placed ball can easily end up in a base hit, runners at 1B and 3B.



• Creates a lot of pressure and numerous opportunities for the defense to make a mistake.

Runner On Second

• Hitter is putting the ball on the ground, no matter what the pitch is. If it is not buntable, bring the bat back, which keeps the catcher back.



• Runner is going on the pitch. If there is no contact, it becomes a straight steal.



• Hitter is pushing the ball up the lines, preferably the third base side, hard enough to make the 3B field it.



• Runner comes hard to 3B, looking to make the turn and score. If that is not possible, the third base coach will hold him up.



• Looking to score a run on this play. Well placed ball can score a run and become a base hit as well.

Runners On First and Second

• Hitter is putting the ball on the ground, no matter what the pitch is. If it is not buntable, bring the bat back, which keeps the catcher back.



• Runners are going on the pitch. If there is no contact, it becomes a straight double steal.



• Hitter is pushing the ball up the lines, preferably the third base side, hard enough to make the 3B field it.



• Runner from second is looking to score.



• Runner from first reads the lead runner. He goes, you go. He stops, you stop.



• Best case scenario, one run scored, runners on first and third.



• Two runners, double the pressure on the defense. The possibility is there for the defense to play this situation into a big offensive boost.
  

Bunt and Run Tips ~ From the Dugout

• Hitters, stay in the box and get the bunt down. It is all about "Location, Location, Location." Bunt, then run!



• Runners read the situation ahead of them, react accordingly.



• Work towards the chalk. If it goes foul, you get to try again. A ball pushed up the line, hard enough to make the 3b come and make the play, provides the offense with the best opportunity for maximum success.