Youth Inc. Recommends: Four Resources to Help Deal with Bad Baseball Coaches

Not every coach your child plays for will be a perfect fit — and that’s okay. Whether it’s poor communication, overly harsh criticism, or a lack of support, dealing with a tough coach can be frustrating for both athletes and parents. But learning how to navigate those situations is a valuable life skill. Instead of rushing to intervene or pulling your child from the team, there are constructive ways to help them grow through the experience. Here’s our picks to help support your athlete when coaching falls short. 

The Three Worst Types Of Coaches To Play For 

What it is: Coach RAC breaks three types of “bad coaches”, and describes certian traits associated with each. 

Why we like it: This video might make you laugh, but it also highlights red flags to watch for in a coach. Whether you’re a parent or an athlete, recognizing these behaviors can help you make smarter choices when picking a team or program. 

Here's How To Deal With Coaching Politics 

What it is: A TikTok from First Down Exposure discussing coaching politics, and how players can better deal with coaches who aren’t giving them a fair shot at playing time. 

Why we like it: While it may seem obvious, coaches are human too — and their decisions often come down to building the best team, not playing favorites. This resource encourages athletes to reflect honestly on their skill set, identify areas for growth, and approach their coach with a mindset focused on improvement rather than complaints. It’s a valuable lesson in accountability and self-awareness. 

3 Tips For Dealing With A Coach Who Yells 

What it is: A TikTok from Coach Grant Caraway about dealing with coaches who yell at their players, and ways that players can reduce the amount of “yelling” they may receive.  

Why we like it: Coach Grant shares tips that not only help players avoid getting yelled at, but also explain where that frustration might be coming from. He introduces the idea of finding a “buffer” coach — someone more approachable who can bridge the gap between players and the head coach — making it easier for athletes to ask questions, get feedback, and grow. 

How To Get Along With Baseball Coaches 

What it is: An excerpt from Coach Dan Blewett’s book on baseball coaches, highlighting ways players can improve the relationships they have with their coaching staff. 

Why we like it: Blewett breaks down what players can do to build better relationships with their coaches — starting with understanding the dynamics of the coaching staff and each coach’s individual style. It’s a helpful reminder that getting along with a coach isn’t just about talent; it’s also about communication, adaptability, and awareness.