Types of Slaps!
Slappers are the queens of chaos — they have multiple ways to put the ball in play while exploding through the box toward first base. The most common variations are: Drag, Soft, Chop, Punch, and Power. And yes, great slappers can hit away with power too!
Here are the key points for each:
Drag:
A moving bunt where you push or drag the ball past the pitcher (usually toward the right side) while already running toward first.
Why use it?
➡️Puts immediate pressure on the corners and pitcher.
➡️Forces the infield to charge hard, creating rushed throws or mistakes.
➡️Gives elite speedsters the best chance to beat out the throw with almost no swing risk.
Soft Slap:
A controlled, light chopping swing with downward angle to create a slow roller or high, lazy bounce right in front of the plate.
Why use it?
➡️Places the ball in spots where defenders aren't (or forces them to charge from deep).
➡️Slows down the play just enough for your speed to beat out the throw.
➡️Neutralizes strong throwing arms.
Chop Slap:
An aggressive downward chop straight onto the top of the ball to produce a sharp, high, or erratic bounce.
Why use it?
➡️Creates unpredictable hops that are tough to field cleanly.
➡️Forces infielders to adjust their timing and footwork, often leading to errors.
➡️Slows the defense down while you're already gone.
Punch Slap:
A quick, compact "punching" motion with very little follow-through (often choked up) for short, direct contact.
Why use it?
➡️Excellent bat control to thread the ball through gaps or past the pitcher.
➡️Adds a little more pace than a soft slap while keeping placement precise.
➡️Great surprise option when the defense is out of position.
Power Slap:
The most aggressive version — a strong swing with body rotation while still moving through the box to drive the ball harder.
➡️Drives the ball into gaps or as a harder grounder/line drive.
➡️Punishes defenses that cheat in or shift for the bunt/slap.
➡️Forces the entire defense to play you honestly instead of sitting back.
When a slapper has all these tools in her arsenal, opponents never know what’s coming. The defense stays guessing, on their toes, and constantly out of position. Chaos created.