During his playing days, Bockman stood 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m), weighing 175 pounds (79 kg); he batted and threw right-handed.

[3] While playing second base for the Fullerton, California All-Stars, Bockman hit a home run (HR) to help lead the team to a 16–4 victory over Fort Rosecrans, in August 1943.

[4] He also played third base for a Pacific Coast League All-Star team which featured Cleveland Indians pitcher Bob Feller.

Bockman did not play pro baseball from 1943 to 1946, due to service in the United States Navy during World War II.

In April of that year, Bockman belted two home runs in a single game to give the Pirates a 3–1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds at Forbes Field.