A "bunt" is a baseball technique where the batter lightly taps the ball with the bat instead of swinging hard. This is often used to advance a runner on base or to surprise the opposing team. The goal is to place the ball in a location that makes it difficult for fielders to make a play, allowing the batter to reach first base safely. Bunting can be strategic, especially in close games or when a team needs to score. Players like Tony Gwynn and Ichiro Suzuki are known for their bunting skills, which can help their teams gain an advantage during crucial moments.