FIELDING BUNTS
A catcher must able to anticipate multiple situations. One of these situations
is fielding a bunt. There are several factors that must be taken into account
before a hitter even steps into the box. The catcher must recognize the speed
of the runner, the athlete on the mound, the condition of the playing surface,
the game situation (tied, up, down, early in the game or late in the game), and
eventually factor in the speed of the bunted baseball before deciding which base
to throw to. The catcher must take charge of the defense.
A catcher should attempt to field all bunted balls. The entire field is in front
of them and they can make a quick, early decision. If the ball is fielded down
the first base line or towards the middle of the field, the catcher should take
a direct line to the baseball, rake the ball in with both the hand and glove,
set their feet, stay low and athletic, and make a strong and accurate throw to
the intended base.
If a ball is bunted down the third base line the catcher has two forms of footwork.
One method is to stay on the inside of the ball (opposite of the foul line), step
over the ball, rake, spin the head and body, locate the base to throw to, plant
your feet and make a strong and accurate throw. The other method is to round the
baseball, staying on the outside (on or near the foul line), rake, plant and throw.
The coach must allow their catcher to be an athlete. The step-over technique is
the most natural and recommended form of fielding bunts down the third base line.
However, there are some individuals who have the ability to quickly round the
ball, field it, and make a strong throw. A coach needs to be flexible. If the
catcher can perform this skill they should be allowed to show off the athleticism,
not handcuffed into a method that most recommend.
|
|
|
