Adams uses small ball to beat shift

ST. LOUIS — Having opposing defenses shift him to pull the ball has become so commonplace that Matt Adams says he doesn’t even notice it much anymore. That doesn’t mean, however, he isn’t out to exploit it.

Adams laid down the second successful bunt single of his career in Monday’s 10-3 victory over the Phillies, showing off the technique he improved with increased repetition this spring. After years of listening to his manager urge him to consider foiling the shift with a bunt down the third-base line, Adams has begun to buy into the philosophy.

“I’m feeling more comfortable with it this year, for sure,” Adams said. “If it’s that open [on the left side], I’m going to try it.”

It’s not just about the immediate result, either. While Monday’s two-out bunt extended an inning, it also altered the Phillies’ defensive alignment against Adams in his later plate appearances. In showing that he can …

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