What to read on a bunt and run around 2B

Runner at 1st takes off with hit and run principles. He makes sure that the ball is thrown home. He looks in after three strides. He sees the ball bunted. Now, does he take 3B or does he settle at 2B?

The answer lies in what the 3B does. If the 3B attacks the bunt there is a better than average chance that the base will be available to be taken. Often times, regardless of whether or not the 3B actually fields the ball, the issue is did he leave his position to field the ball. If yes, 3B is vacated and the runner should be aggressive toward 3B.

Something else to consider. If the runner is an "A runner" it may not matter if 3B is vacated or not.

When the 3B or pitcher cocks his arm to throw the batter out, the runner rounding the bag could advance to 3B if he has already touched and rounded 2B. This is a decision that must be made with an adequate amount of practice. You want to be knowledgeable about your speed vs. the timing of throwing to 1B and getting a return throw back to 3B.

The bunt and run is a "college game" principle. It's primarily effective when arm strengths aren't quite strong enough to fire across the diagonal of the diamond.