Bunt Defense: Who Covers What
Who fields the bunt, who covers each base, and where the throw goes with a runner on first.
The short version: the corners and pitcher charge to field the bunt, the second baseman covers first, the shortstop covers second, and the catcher calls out where the throw goes. Take the sure out at first unless you field it cleanly enough to get the lead runner.
Responsibilities by Position
| Position | Job on the bunt |
|---|---|
| Pitcher | Fields any bunt they can get to in front of the plate, especially up the middle. |
| Catcher | Fields bunts close to home and, just as important, calls out which base to throw to. |
| Third Baseman | Charges hard on bunts down the third base line and toward the mound. |
| First Baseman | Charges bunts on the right side, unless holding the runner and reading the play. |
| Second Baseman | Covers first base when the first baseman charges. |
| Shortstop | Covers second base for the force on the lead runner. |
Coaching the Bunt Defense
The two mistakes young teams make are everyone going for the ball and nobody calling the base. Drill the charge so one player fields it and the catcher, who sees the whole field, makes the call loudly. For full coverage diagrams and the aggressive options with runners on first and second, see the handbook bunt defense guide.
Bunt Defense FAQ
What is the goal of bunt defense?
The first goal is to get a sure out, almost always at first base. If the defense fields the bunt cleanly and quickly, the second goal is to get the lead runner at second or third. Giving up one out to avoid giving up the lead runner is usually the right trade for young teams.
Who covers first base on a bunt?
When the first baseman charges to field the bunt, the second baseman covers first base to take the throw. If the first baseman holds, they take the throw and the pitcher or third baseman fields the bunt.
Who fields the bunt?
Whoever has the best angle: the pitcher on balls up the middle, the third baseman on balls down the third base line, the first baseman on the right side, and the catcher on anything close to home. One player calls everyone else off.
Where should the throw go on a sacrifice bunt?
Take the sure out at first unless the ball is fielded cleanly and early enough to get the lead runner. The catcher, who can see the whole play, should call the base loudly so the fielder does not have to decide on their own.
Run a defense that knows where to go
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