Top Things Softball Players Should Do While on the Bench

Being on the bench during a softball game might feel like a break, but it’s far from it. Sure, you’re not in the batter’s box or out on the field, but that doesn’t mean your job is done. In fact, what players do while on the bench can have a big impact on team chemistry, energy, and success.

So, what exactly should you be doing when you’re not in the lineup? Let’s dig into how players can stay involved, focused, and ready while on the bench.

Why the Bench is More Important Than You Think

Every player wants to be on the field, making plays and helping their team win. But in softball, just like in life, there will be times when you’re not in the spotlight. And guess what? Those moments matter just as much.

The bench isn’t a timeout from the game—it’s part of it. The energy, focus, and attitude from the dugout carry over to the field. A fired-up bench can light a spark under the players on the field. A quiet, distracted bench? Not so helpful.

What Should Softball Players Do on the Bench?

Here’s a breakdown of the top things softball players can (and should) do while on the bench. Use these tips not just to be a good teammate, but to grow into a smarter, stronger player.

1. Stay Engaged in the Game

This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to mentally check out when you’re not playing. Avoid that trap. Pay attention to every pitch, every play, and every call. Treat it as a chance to learn and increase your knowledge of the game.

How to stay engaged:

• Chart pitches: Keep track of the pitcher’s patterns and tendencies. This helps you be more prepared when it’s your turn at bat.
• Talk to your teammates: Help outfielders know how many outs there are or yell encouragement to the batter.
• Watch the opposing players: Study their habits. Are they aggressive on the base paths? Do they struggle with certain pitches?

2. Keep the Energy Up

The dugout can be the heart of your team’s energy. A supportive, vocal, and high-energy bench can keep spirits high and help turn the tides of a close game.

Ways to bring the energy:

• Cheer for your teammates in meaningful ways. Personalized cheers are great, but make sure you’re genuinely supporting each player.
• Start chants or funny rituals to keep the dugout lively.
• Celebrate the little wins—a walk, a good pitch, or a smart base running move all deserve some bench love.

3. Be a Good Teammate

Softball is a team sport, and that team includes everyone—starters and role players alike. What kind of teammate are you when you’re not in the game?

Being a great teammate means:

• Encouraging, not criticizing. If someone strikes out, lift them up, don’t roll your eyes.
• Offering high-fives, hugs, or even just a pat on the back when someone comes off the field, win or lose.
• Staying ready. That means being warmed up and mentally prepared in case you’re called in.

4. Use It As a Learning Opportunity

Want to become a better player? Watch and learn when you’re on the bench.

What to look for:

• Watch how the best players carry themselves: What do they do when they strike out? How do they deal with pressure?
• Observe game situations: How do teams manage runners? What pitches are called in big moments?
• Talk to coaches or experienced teammates: Ask questions about plays or strategies you’re unsure about.

Many top-level athletes credit their improvement to sitting on the bench and learning from others before getting their time to shine. So don’t see it as time wasted—it’s time invested.

5. Warm Up Other Players

Whether it’s catching pitches for the relief pitcher or tossing balls to teammates between innings, being helpful physically is part of your bench job.

• Help teammates stretch or stay loose
• Warm up the pitcher if the catcher is putting on gear
• Keep an eye on foul balls and equipment to speed up the game and avoid delays

6. Stay Positive, Even When It’s Hard

Let’s be real. Sitting on the bench can feel disappointing, especially if you expected to be in the lineup. But how you deal with that matters.

Don’t let frustration or negative energy bring you—or your teammates—down. That kind of attitude spreads fast, and not in a good way. Instead, focus on bringing the kind of energy you’d want to see from others.

You’re not just playing for now—you’re building the kind of character and work ethic that turns heads in the long run.

7. Be Ready to Jump In

The game can change quickly. A player gets injured, or your coach wants to make a strategic shift. If that moment comes, be ready. That means:

• Having your glove close and your cleats on
• Staying mentally and physically warm
• Knowing the game situation and where you’d fit in

A good bench player is like a pinch-hitter in the clutch—ready to step up when the team needs them most.

Final Thoughts: Stand Up Players Sit Strong

Softball is just as much about attitude as it is about skill. When you’re on the bench, you still have a job to do—one that can shape not just your play, but your entire team’s performance.

So the next time you’re spending more innings in the dugout than you hoped, remember this: your role is still crucial. Teams win because of what happens on the field and off it. And a strong bench? That’s the secret weapon every great team needs.

The bench isn’t a punishment. It’s part of the process. Embrace it. Own it. And keep showing up as the kind of teammate any coach would trust on—and off—the field.

For all first time or rookie coaches, grab your Voluntold Toolkit here.

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If you’re interested in youth sports mental performance coaching with a certified mindset coach, check it out here.

For all you youth sports parents who are the TRUE weekend warriors, grab your Weekend Warriors Toolkit here.

If you’re interested in youth sports mental performance coaching with a certified mindset coach, check it out here.