Overview

The use of the squeeze bunt gives coaches the ability to put pressure on the other team and allow the team to score a tying run or a go ahead run, and even a insurance run. This situation will definitely put more pressure on the hitter; however it can truly turn the tide of the game.

Safety Squeeze

Utilizing the safety squeeze, the base runner third base does not move for home base until he views a successful bunt laid down. This approach does take pressure off of the batter to execute a successful bunt; however it does put more pressure on the batter to make a good bunt that is not playable by the pitcher. In order to get into position to bunt using a jab or pivot step, you do not want to tip off your intentions before the pitcher’s arm starts to move forward where they are unable to change Throwing direction. Since the base runner  is waiting for a successful bunt, you should not be hesitant to take a pitch otherwise you need to bunt down the third or first base line. When performing a successful bunt be sure not to be in a hurry to leave the box and get to first base, you job is to lay down a good bunt and score the man on third.

Suicide Squeeze

For the hitter, the suicide squeeze is much like the safety squeeze in that you must wait until the pitcher cannot change the direction of the pitch before you pivot to bunt. It’s much more difficult in that the runner is not waiting to see if you have bunted the ball successfully before breaking from third. The assumption is you will bunt the ball no matter where it is pitched. The runner from third must wait until the pitchers arm is coming forward before making his break for home. Unlike the safety squeeze where the location of the bunt is of primary concern, in a suicide squeeze, you want to make sure you bunt the ball fairly. It’s very difficult for this play to be defensed if the ball is bunted.