Glossary
Bunt and run
A bunt and run is a play in which the runner breaks with the pitch and the batter must bunt it on the ground, so the runner can take an extra base while the defense makes the play at first.
It is a sacrifice bunt with the runner already moving. Because the runner leaves on the pitch instead of waiting to see the ball down, a bunt fielded by the third baseman can leave third base empty, and a runner from first who keeps going can end up there. With a runner on second, the runner can score on a bunt the defense plays to first.
The batter's job is harder than on a sacrifice: bunt the pitch wherever it is, and keep it on the ground. A missed bunt leaves the runner stealing with a catcher who has seen it coming, and a popped-up bunt is an easy double play. That is why the play suits a batter who bunts well and a runner who reads the ball off the bat.
Both the batter and the runner need the sign, and the runner needs to know whether to keep going past the next base. On a wristband it is one call, Bunt + Run, read by both before the pitch.
When to call it
- A fast runner on first and a batter who rarely misses a bunt.
- A defense whose third baseman charges hard and whose shortstop is slow to cover third.
- A pitcher who throws a lot of strikes, so the batter gets a pitch to bunt.
Put it on a card: Baseball and softball signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a bunt and run different from a hit and run?
On both, the runner goes with the pitch and the batter has to put the ball in play. On a hit and run the batter swings; on a bunt and run the batter bunts, which is easier to keep on the ground but gives the defense an easy out at first.
What should the batter do if the pitch is bad?
Try to bunt it anyway, as long as it can be reached safely. The runner is already going, so pulling the bat back leaves the runner to be thrown out.
More in the glossary
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