A bunt in softball is a technique the batter uses, especially in the fast pitch game, to advance runners around the base path. The same technique to execute a bunt in softball is also used when bunting in baseball.
To perform a bunt, the batter holds a loosely gripped bat in front of home plate. The batter typically raises or lowers the bat to make contact, which forces the ball to bounce off the bat and into the infield.
When a bunt is properly executed, the ball travels slowly, which requires the infielders to charge in toward the plate and pulls them away from covering a base.
Different types of bunts in softball
Sacrifice bunt
As the name suggests, the batter uses a sacrifice bunt to help the baserunner advance while getting himself or herself thrown out at first. Sometimes referred to as a sac bunt for short, this bunt is most commonly used to advance a runner from first base to second base.
Sac bunts are also used to advance a runner from second base to third or to allow a runner to score from third. This sacrificing strategy is typically used either because the batter is one of the weaker hitters on the team or because they are exceptionally fast. Often a sacrifice bunt is used because the other team is ahead and the team needs a runner in scoring position. Most batters square up to bunt a softball even before the pitchers throw the ball.
Bunting for a base hit
It is most common for a batter to use bunting as away of advancing runners already on base. A bunt in softball also works to get a base hit. Even with runners already on base, a bunt sometimes allows the batter to reach first base.
When a batter expects a bunt to help them get on base, they typically wait until the pitcher releases the ball, which is more likely to catch the fielders off guard.
A batter who wants to use a bunt to get on base will start running as soon as the ball makes contact with the bat. This is known as the drag bunt.
Drag bunting is a technique most commonly performed by left-handed hitters. Because a lefty batter is already closer to first base, they have a slight edge when laying down a bunt and running on contact.
Swinging bunt
Batters occasionally perform what’s known as a swinging bunt, also known as a slug. To perform a swinging bunt, a batter will stand in the batter’s box with their normal swinging stance and then very softly swing the bat to make contact. The goal of a swinging bunt is deception. The fielders expect a full swing instead of the soft contact of the swinging bunt.
An unintentional soft swing achieves the same result as a swinging bunt. If a batter plans to swing and unintentionally makes soft contact, they may hit a dribbler with the same result as bunting.
Exercises to practice bunting in softball
The right bunt at the right time helps your team win. Hitting bombs in batting practice is more fun, but practicing bunting also benefits the whole team. Here are some drills to practice:
Pair Bunting
Divide your team into pairs of two. One person pitches while the other person hits the ball. Agree on safe zones in the area around the pitcher. Before each pitch, the pitcher announces first or third indicating where the batter needs to bunt the ball.
The goal for the hitter is to keep the ball in the safe zones when bunting. When all the balls are pitched, switch places and repeat the drill. A golf ball and a bat are needed for this practice.
Each batter learns how to precisely direct the ball on the field. The goal is to improve bunting contact and control over where the ball is bunted. It also improves the batter’s ability to avoid bunting to the pitcher.
Bunting with Three
This drill requires three players instead of two. In this case, each group has two pitchers and one hitter. Each pitcher has a small ball to pitch. The hitter holds a bat. The pitchers rotate quickly, with the second pitcher immediately preparing to throw after the first pitcher completes their throw.
When the first ball is hit, the second pitcher throws the ball immediately. When both pitchers run out of balls, switch places, rotate, and repeat.
The goal is to improve the hitter’s reaction time to bunt. It also gives a clear idea of where to bunt and how to bunt. Additional, the hitter learns not to bunt back to the pitcher. Fast reaction is what is needed many times.
Bunt a Softball Alone Exercising
With a bat in hand, practice moving from a ready-to-swing stance to holding your bat out to bunt. Pretend the ball is coming and square up to bunt.
During this drill, bend your elbows to keep your arms from over extending. This provides more control over directing the ball on contact in a live bunting situation.
For all of the drills here, a lighter bat, like a fungo, can be a handy tool for practice.
