What should one look for in a Bench Coach?

[Critical Mass]

I view the Bench Coach as more of an "Assistant Manager". That is, someone who prefers "Manager", and is good all-around, but not quite as good as my manager.

However, I notice that when you take a player and make him a coach, regardless of whether he was a pitcher or hitter, he always becomes "Bench Coach". Their ratings, however, usually stink.

So why do some people have the preferred occupation of "BC", and would one be better off hiring one of them as opposed to someone who is "LEGENDARY" or "Outstanding" in all categories?

[Supernovae]

Originally Posted by Critical Mass

I view the Bench Coach as more of an "Assistant Manager". That is, someone who prefers "Manager", and is good all-around, but not quite as good as my manager.

However, I notice that when you take a player and make him a coach, regardless of whether he was a pitcher or hitter, he always becomes "Bench Coach". Their ratings, however, usually stink.

So why do some people have the preferred occupation of "BC", and would one be better off hiring one of them as opposed to someone who is "LEGENDARY" or "Outstanding" in all categories?

I haven't had a lot of time to play OOTP12, because I've been too busy elsewhere and iOOTP takes up my OOTP time . So, some of my advice is based on previous versions of OOTP.

The in-game help on Personnel Roles (for Bench Coach):

"Bench coaches are responsible for helping the manager handle his responsbilites, especially during actual games. Bench coaches have some impact on all areas of play, including fielding. You have the option of delegating decision-making authority to your bench coach when playing out a game. A bench coach's coaching rating affects the play and affect the play and development of players on his specific team."

Though, I've always viewed Bench Coaches as my Jr. Manager. Basically, cases where my Manager is ejected then the Bench Coach can take over and perform. I'd look for BC's that are a few steps below my MA in all areas. Ex. if my MA was LEGENDARY in all areas, then I'd look to find someone OUTSTANDING in all areas.

As far as player's retiring (forced or other) and becoming coaches, I think their roles are set as inexperienced until they develop their coaching skills in the minors, etc. Unlike, EA's Madden, Pro Bowl players who retire and become coaches boost their stats at their former position. i.e. a Pro Bowl receiver and becomes a coach will boost the receiving core.

However, players-turned-coaches needing to develop their coaching skills in the minors is my pure speculation (Palli and/or Markus would have to confirm.)

-Supernovae