Fielding Tips - Handling Bunts. Key man on bunts is the catcher. Batters seldom show their intention to bunt until the ball has been pitched, then, suddenly shortening the grip on their bat and stepping forward to meet the ball. Smart catchers, like Bill Dickey of the New York Yankees, start forward as soon as they see this move, in position either to catch the ball, if missed by the batter, or to be close behind if the bunt is successful. On bunts too far away for the catcher to handle, he should shout the name of the man, pitcher or infielder, who is in better position to make the play.