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[excel]

Randy, Randy, Randy, not off to a good start. LOL!



Big Unit clashes with NYC cameraman

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS


In this image released by WCBS-TV, Randy Johnson puts his hand up to block a camera from WCBS-TV after he left his Manhattan hotel on his way to a physical for the New York Yankees, on Monday, Jan. 10, 2005 in New York. (AP Photo/WCBS-TV, HO)
NEW YORK -- Randy Johnson got a little physical on the way to his New York Yankees physical. The Big Unit put his long right arm up to block a camera from WCBS-TV on Monday after he left his Manhattan hotel. Johnson, who was accompanied by Yankees director of team security Jerry Laveroni, made contact with the camera, station spokeswoman Audrey Pass said.

"Get out of my face, that's all I ask," Johnson said, according to a video of what occurred, which was posted on the station's Web site.

"No cameras," Laveroni said.

"Don't get in my face," Johnson then said. "I don't care who you are. Don't get in my face."

"I'm just taking a picture," said the cameraman, identified by the station as Vinny Everett.

Responded Johnson: "Don't get in my face, and don't talk back to me, all right."

Johnson issued a statement through agent Alan Nero that was distributed by the Yankees.

"Regarding the unfortunate incident that happened this morning as I was on my way to take a physical, I hope that everyone will understand that the past few days have been a bit overwhelming and I wish I had handled the situation differently," Johnson said. "I am very sorry it happened."

Pass later issued a statement for the station that said "in the regular course of CBS2's newsgathering on a midtown street, Randy Johnson took exception to our cameraman's effort to photograph him, attempted to block his lens and insisted that the camera be removed. Johnson has since apologized."

Johnson is scheduled to appear Tuesday on CBS's "Late Show with David Letterman."

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On the Net:

http://cbsnewyork.com