Joe Torre isn't just a baseball manager. Joe Torre is a manager of people. He knows how to get the most of players who aren't superstars.

It is reported that Torre refused to negotiate with the Dodgers until the team's former manager left on his own volition. That speaks volumes of the man. What will he do for the Dodgers?

Torre had the advantage of managing a team with very deep pockets while in New York. The Yankees bankrolled their lineup to the tune of over 200 million dollars ($200,000,000). Torre knew full well if he didn't get the Yankees to the World Series this year he would be another of a long line of Yankee ex-managers.

In Los Angeles, Torre will have no such budget. He will be able to do what he does best. Get runners on bases. In an era of home run fever Joe Torre teaches base hits and managing the count.

The Dodgers will benefit most from Torre's ability to recognize talent. He will not hesitate to sit a veteran and play a rookie. Just ask Jason Giambi. Torre replaced Giambi with no less than three unknowns.

The Dodgers may not make it to the 2008 World Series but they almost certainly will be worth watching next year. Expect their games to be longer as Torre manages the short ball and base running.