Bunting technique is not a difficult concept to teach. But what is difficult is making sure you keep on top of it. If your catcher makes a mistake in the game, you want to be sure you can get it corrected, so that when he goes after that ball, he can take charge of the situation, call loudly, take the appropriate steps, and make a good strong throw to first base.
Bunt Responsibility & Technique Drill for Catchers
The purpose of this drill is to work the catcher’s throw to first base, so they can get comfortable with the footwork & technique they need to use to be able to make the play.
This drill can be done with one catcher, or you can rotate in three or four catchers, if you have them.
The catcher begins down in his ready stance, and the coach will call first, middle or third, and that will give the catcher an indication of which ball we want him to go get.
Remember, whenever you field the bunt, no matter which base it is going towards, you always want to scoop the ball with both hands. And it’s imperative that the catcher move quickly from his set position to field the ball. You also want your players to get in the habit of calling the ball. This goes for the catcher as well. If the pitcher knows that the catcher is going for the ball, he is freed up from having to drive himself in to get that ball.
On a bunt to first base, you want to take a drop step away from the runner before throwing to first base. You don’t want to be throwing over the runner.
On a middle ball bunt, the catcher will come to the left of the ball, rounding off his approach to the ball so that momentum is headed towards first base.
On a bunt down the third base line, the catcher is going to step across the ball, and when he sets up, his left shoulder should be pointed at first base.
You don’t want to slide behind the ball (which would put us nearer to the third base line). When this happens, the catcher ends up dropping their arm angle and you end up with a ball down the right field line. The minute the catcher scoops up the ball and stands, his left shoulder should be pointed at first base.
Next step… check out our complete collection of defensive baseball drills. We’ll break down the most common defensive situations your team will face, and give you simple practice ideas to help them prepare!