What items is a coach allowed to have in the coaching box?

A coach is allowed to have a stopwatch, rules book, and scorebook in the coaching box because these items are essential for managing the game effectively. The stopwatch is helpful for keeping track of time during the game, particularly during pitching changes, timeouts, or other delays. The rules book serves as a reference for any questions or clarifications regarding the rules of the game, ensuring the coach makes informed decisions. The scorebook is vital for keeping detailed records of the game's progress, player stats, and other relevant information that could influence coaching strategies.

In contrast, while a bat and helmet might be useful for players, they are not appropriate items for a coach's box. A water bottle and clipboard may seem practical, but they don't have the same level of necessity for game management as the items in the correct answer. Similarly, a laptop and headset could be seen as too high-tech and may not align with the traditional expectations of what is allowed in the coaching box during a game. Thus, the specified combination of a stopwatch, rules book, and scorebook best fits the criteria for what a coach should have available during gameplay.