By Lynn O'Linski
While bunting is an important part of baseball, it comes into play much more frequently in softball. Given the larger size of the ball and smaller fields, softball teams more often than not depend on manufacturing runs, rather than try to rely on stringing several hits together.
The bunt in softball can be used as an offensive weapon. Lead-off hitters regularly try to reach base by slap bunting or slap hitting. However, learning the basics of bunting in softball is essential before moving on to more advanced bunting techniques.
Here, we will review three aspects of laying down a bunt: the proper stance, the proper grip and the proper bat angle.
1. Squared stance: When laying down a sacrifice bunt, use a squared stance. Your shoulders and feet should be facing the pitcher.
Pivot stance: If you are attempting a suicide squeeze bunt, an element of surprise is essential so the pivot stance should be used. Basically it involves moving closer to the plate while remaining in your regular batting stance until the pitch is released. Then you pivot your back foot so it faces the pitcher, and square your shoulders as you normally would in a squared stance.
2. "Separated" grip: This grip is used when laying down a sacrifice bunt. Keep your bottom hand positioned near the bat handle as you normally would when you are hitting. Then slide your top hand up the handle about 5 inches to the thick part of the bat. Bend your pointer finger on your top hand to create a shelf, so the bat will rest between your pointer finger and your thumb. Your thumb is positioned just behind the barrel of the bat.
This grip allows a hitter to control the bat in order to absorb the impact of the pitch.
"Together" grip: This grip, where a hitter chokes up on the bat with both hands just below the barrel, is used when attempting to bunt for a base hit. It allows a hitter to push the ball to a specific zone on the infield. Normally, hitters will try to push the ball between the pitcher's mound and third base, or between the pitcher's mound and first base.
3. Bat angle: When squared around to attempt a sacrifice bunt, hold the bat high in the strike zone with the barrel of the bat slightly above your hands. (Never attempt to bunt a pitch higher than the position of the barrel.)
Keep your eyes level with the barrel of the bat. As the pitch comes in, bend your knees to the location of the pitch; don't adjust the position of the bat.
Allow the ball to hit the bat - don't push at the ball - so it absorbs the impact of the pitch. Ideally, this will deaden the ball, making it more difficult for infielders to make a play on runner, or runners, you are trying to advance.
