With one of the best pitching staffs in the major leagues and a roster plagued by injuries, the Washington Nationals have frequently found themselves in low-scoring, competitive games this season.
When run support is scarce, piecing together productive at bats becomes especially important. But coaxing production out of the bottom of National League lineups, particularly the pitcher’s spot, often requires some strategic maneuvering.
The sacrifice bunt may not be the most exciting play in baseball, but its execution can be the difference between winning and losing in the late innings of close ballgames. Despite its potential significance, the completion of a sacrifice bunt is often taken for granted.