How to Teach a Sacrifice Bunt (and Why Every Player Needs One)

In Pressure Ball, our offense, everybody on the roster can sacrifice bunt. It forces the defense to field the ball, and most youth defenses haven't practiced it.

Get the bat out front

From your normal stance, swing the bat around like a check swing, without moving your feet. The bat has to be out in front of the plate.

Preset the angle

Close the end of the bat. Righties point the end cap toward the first or second baseman. Lefties point it toward the shortstop or third baseman.

Stay loose

Don't get stiff too early. As the pitch comes, slide your top thumb down the bat and drop your back foot a little behind the plate.

Keep the angle

If the bat drifts back toward your chest or behind the plate, the bunt won't work. Preset it and hold it.

Eyes behind the barrel

Get low enough that your eyes are buried behind the barrel. Ball, barrel, eyes in a straight line. Watch the ball come off the bat.