As the name implies, a base hit bunt is used when the primary objective is to get a runner on base. Coaches will usually call for a base hit bunt when facing a team whose infielders are either slow, or playing their positions quite deep. The technique used when bunting for a base hit will differ depending on whether the batter is right or left handed. For a right-handed batter, the process is similar to the sacrifice bunt, with the following exceptions:

A)    The batter needs to wait as long as possible (at the point the pitcher releases the ball) to come around into a bunting position.

B)    Contact is made with the weight on the front foot while the back foot is pushing off towards first.
 
Left-handed batters will use a drag technique.  “Dragging” involves a crossover step with the back foot as the batter moves into a bunting position.

In both cases, the delay prevents the corner infielders from charging forward, which means it will take them longer to come forward and field the ball. The batter moves from a normal hitting stance to a forward moving bunting position very late in the delivery of the ball. The lack of movement by the corners combined with the early steps toward 1st increase the chances of reaching first safely.

The most common reason attempted bunts for a base hit fail is poor placement of the ball, or contacting the ball too hard. The goal is always to create that perfect “slow roller.”

Key Points to Remember:

• Wait as long as possible to come around
• Use soft hands to “catch” the ball with the bat
• Only bunt a strike
• Keep the bat at the top of the strike zone
• Try and place the ball near the foul line where it will be difficult to field
• Push off towards 1st at the point of contact

More Tips on Bunting:

See Sac Bunting