In softball, power hitting gets a lot of attention — but sometimes, it’s the small ball game that can tip the scales between a win and a loss. Bunting may seem like a simple skill, but it requires precision, timing, and strategy. Whether it’s a sacrifice bunt, a bunt for a hit, or a squeeze play, your team needs reps to master this finesse move. Here’s a set of focused bunting drills that will sharpen your players’ small ball skills and keep the defense on its toes.
Softball Bunting Drills
1️⃣ Stationary Bunt Placement – Softball Bunting Drills
Start simple: work on control and placement without worrying about the running element. Set up three cones along each baseline — one near the pitcher’s circle, one halfway down the line, and one near the base. Players will bunt off a tee or soft toss and aim to land the ball near a chosen cone.
✅ Focus points:
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Angle of the bat
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Soft hands to deaden the ball
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Watching the ball all the way to contact
Rotate through targets, so players practice bunting up both the first and third base lines. Keep score to add competition!
2️⃣ Live Bunt-and-Run – Softball Bunting Drills
Once players are placing their bunts well, it’s time to add game speed. Have your pitcher throw live pitches while your batter bunts and immediately sprints to first base. Add a fielder at third or first to simulate pressure.
✅ Focus points:
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Quick reaction out of the box
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Dropping the bunt in fair territory
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Beating out the throw when bunting for a hit
You can track how many successful bunt-for-hits each player gets in five tries, then rotate.
3️⃣ Squeeze Play Simulation – Softball Bunting Drills
For advanced teams, practice the squeeze play. Place a runner at third base. The batter’s job is to get the bunt down, no matter what — the runner is coming home on the pitch. Pitchers and infielders can practice defending against the squeeze as well.
✅ Focus points:
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Bunting ANY pitch — even if it’s high or outside
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Maintaining composure under pressure
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Communication between batter and runner
Rotate runners and batters so everyone practices both roles.
Wrap-up
Strong bunting can change the game — it pressures the defense, creates scoring opportunities, and forces mistakes. Adding dedicated bunting drills to your practices ensures your players have the tools they need when the moment comes.
What are your team’s favorite bunting drills? Comment below or share your best small-ball strategies! If you have questions or want personalized drill suggestions, email us anytime at coach@elitesoftballdrills.com.
Spring is here — so grab your bats, set up those cones, and get out there and play ball!
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