Torre dives into online virtual world
New animated CD-ROM features Torre's coaching method

NEW YORK -- Have you ever wondered what it would be like to play for Joe Torre? Now you can find out.

The Yankees manager has teamed up with Van Wagner Sports Group to develop "Joe Torre's Virtual Baseball Academy," a CD-ROM licensed by Major League Baseball and available for purchase at MLB.com.

The interactive, animated 3-D CD-ROM features Torre's coaching method to teach baseball to youth baseball players, coaches and parents.

"This is a unique product, because it's done in 3-D animation," Torre said. "When you combine that technology with my method of teaching the game, we think we have created the best baseball training product in the market."

"Joe Torre's Virtual Baseball Academy" teaches baseball skills and drills that are simple and effective, practice plans for youth baseball coaches, as well as the mental aspects of the game.

The CD-ROM also features "Joe Torre's Ballpark Challenge," which includes experiences that surround environments unique to a baseball stadium, from the concession stand to the bleachers to the playing field. The game comes in three levels of play, including a peanut throw and a fly-ball catch.