What's the difference between a bunt and a sacrifice fly in baseball?

In baseball, both a bunt and a sacrifice fly are strategic offensive plays used to advance runners or score runs, but they are executed in different ways and serve distinct purposes. 

A bunt is a play in which the batter holds the bat lightly and lightly taps the ball, usually by meeting the ball with a downward angle as it approaches the plate. The goal of a bunt is to softly place the ball into fair territory on the ground, often along the first or third baseline. This is typically done to advance a baserunner from one base to another or to surprise the defense and attempt to reach base safely. Bunting is often employed when there are fewer than two outs and a baserunner is in scoring position, like on second base, and the batter aims to sacrifice his own chance of getting on base in exchange for moving the runner closer to home plate.

A sacrifice fly, on the other hand, occurs when a batter hits a fly ball deep enough into the outfield that allows a baserunner to tag up and advance to the next base after the catch. This play usually takes place with less than two outs and a baserunner on third base. The batter's intention is to hit the ball high and far enough to give the baserunner a good chance of scoring from third base when the outfielder catches the ball. If the outfield catch is made successfully, the baserunner tags up and sprints home to score a run, while the batter is credited with a sacrifice fly and an RBI (run batted in).

In summary, a bunt involves gently tapping the ball along the ground to advance runners, while a sacrifice fly entails hitting a deep fly ball to allow a baserunner to tag up and score. Both plays showcase the strategic elements of baseball, utilizing different techniques to achieve offensive goals in specific game situations.

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