How to Coach Baseball
In baseball, there are different types of coaches overlooking the different subgroups of each team. In fact, this is probably why coaches also wear a numbered uniform, to distinguish one from the other. In this article, let’s run-through the different baseball coaches, their areas of responsibilities.
Manager
A baseball manager is the head coach, and can be considered as the coach in the conventional way. However, unlike conventional coaches, the baseball doesn’t overlook the team’s training or is as hands-on in training as coaches in other sports do. The manager also receives the reports from other coaches and evaluates on the players’ strengths and weaknesses.
A baseball manager is responsible for picking the batting order. If the pitch coach is not available, then the baseball manager is responsible for picking who will pitch on on what day. On the game day itself, the baseball manager decides on who the substitutions of batters, runners and pitchers, will be.That’s why it’s important for the manager to know his team’s strengths and weaknesses, and he must have a knack for substitutions. He must know which player should play, and which should be withdrawn.
Bench Coach
baseball coachThe bench coach is the second-in-command to the baseball manager. He gives advice and assist the manager in making decisions in the game. Aside from assuming the responsibilities of the manager should the manager not be available, he also becomes interim manager should the manager resign or get fired.
The bench manager takes a more hands-on responsibility in the team’s training. He helps set up practices and is responsible for the stretching routines before a game (Tips on how to stretch safely). He also coordinates the spring practices and trainings.
A bench coach should have the same level of leadership and decision-making qualities as a manager. At the same time, he should also know the skills of a more conventional coach, especially when it comes to training his team’s players.
Pitching Coach
The pitching coach is, obviously, responsible for the team’s pitchers’ training. He reports to the manager on the progress and condition of the pitchers. He also serves as adviser to the pitchers during the game itself. He is allowed to visit the mound to talk to pitchers on how to pitch.
Bullpen Coach
The bullpen coach has similar responsibilities as the pitching coach, however he focuses on the relief pitchers in the bullpen. However, he must stay in the bullpen to work with the relievers.
Hitting Coach and Base Coaches
A hitting coach monitors and works with the players to train and improve their hitting techniques during practice, during the game and after the game. He advises the manager on their progress.
Base coaches overlook the are stationed in the coaches’ boxes at the first and third base. They are responsible for the runners and batters in direction and when they are sent in from the dugout. The first base coach gets to decide if the batter should stop at first base. The third base coach decides on whether to hold runners or send them to round out the second and third bases. If you enjoy reading this article, you’ll surely be interested in reading how to make the perfect baseball cap.