Squeeze play

Written byNick Gilden Hours Last Updated on Categories Baseball

What is the Meaning of Squeeze Play in Baseball?

The squeeze play refers to a maneuver in baseball which involves a sacrifice bunt whilst a runner is on third base. The primary purpose of a squeeze play is to score a run.

The batter performs a bunt with the expectation of being put out at first base, which in turn gives the runner on third base the opportunity to score.

Types of Squeeze Play

There are two types of squeeze play that a batter can use to their advantage.

  • Safety Squeeze – This is where a runner on third base waits for the batsman to make contact during the bunt before making for the home plate.

Suicide Squeeze – The runner on third takes off whilst the pitcher is preparing to throw. This method relies entirely on the batter to bunt the ball into fair territory. If not, it’s likely a double play will be called or the runner would be tagged out.

What is a Double Squeeze in Baseball?

A double squeeze play is a strategy used in baseball where two runners are on base. Normally, the runners would be on second and third bases. The batter then bunts the ball while the two runners attempt to steal a base each. By doing this, both of the runners are attempting to reach a scoring position instead of just one runner.

I'm Nick, a professional researcher & writer by day and a die-hard baseball fan by night. I have a deep love and knowledge of the game and love sharing it with others. I've been involved in baseball in one way or another for as long as I can remember - playing the game on an amateur level since I was a kid, writing about the game for my college newspaper, and now working with some of the biggest names in baseball media.