Joe Torre Named Team USA Manager For 2013 World Baseball Classic

Few around the game of baseball have achieved what Joe Torre has over the years. In addition to being a pretty decent ball player back in his day, Torre led the Yankees to numerous world championships and also was at the helm of the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2008 to 2010.

Torre is no longer managing in the Major Leagues, but news came on Thursday that he would be named the manager of Team USA for the 2013 World Baseball Classic.

"I am honored to be selected to lead Team USA in the 2013 World Baseball Classic," Torre said. "I have been fortunate to have many different experiences throughout my career, but being a part of Team USA will be a first, and I am very excited about it. I look forward to the challenge of representing the United States when this tournament celebrates the global growth of our national pastime next year."

"We are thrilled to announce Joe Torre as the manager of the U.S. for the upcoming World Baseball Classic," said Paul Seiler, USA Baseball Executive Director/CEO. "Joe's track record as a manager speaks for itself, and we're excited to have his leadership in place as we attempt to secure our first World Baseball Classic title."

The U.S. has not faired very well at the WBC in the first two years of its existence (2006, 2009), finishing no higher than fourth despite a stacked roster full of superstars.

The USA Baseball roster will be decided on by Torre and a few of his assistant coaches in the coming months.