The Big Unit

Randy Johnson, the newest Yankee, is otherwise known as the Big Unit. Double entendres aside, New York may be understanding that the overpowering left hander can also be quite a big dick. “Big Unit does get physical”:

The Big Unit already has had his first Big Meltdown in the Big Apple.

On his way to the physical that finally cemented his long-awaited trade to the Yankees, Randy Johnson and his bodyguard got physical in a heated argument with a local television cameraman – and later with a Daily News photographer – yesterday morning in separate incidents on Madison Ave. between 58th and 60th Sts.

. . .

Johnson and Yankees head of security Jerry Laveroni were captured on video yelling at Ch. 2 cameraman Vinny Everett while he attempted to cover Johnson’s walk from the Four Seasons hotel to his appointment with Yankee team physicians at an annex of Columbia Presbyterian Hospital on 60th St.

Johnson and Laveroni yelled at the cameraman several times to stop shooting them and Johnson is seen pushing the camera lens toward the sidewalk with his right (non-pitching) hand. Everett, who chased Johnson and his guards down 58th St. after they sneaked out of a side entrance of the hotel, appeared to attempt to politely engage Johnson in conversation before the encounter became physical.

“I don’t care who you are, don’t get in my face!” the 6-10 Johnson snapped at one point as they brushed past the cameraman. “Don’t get in my face, and don’t talk back to me, all right?”

Ch. 2 reporter Duke Castiglione said he watched the altercation unfold from about a half block away, but declined comment, and Daily News photographer Michael Schwartz also was among those who witnessed it. That exchange ended with Everett shouting back at Johnson, “Welcome to New York!” as the pitcher continued down the street. Johnson is slated to appear tonight on CBS’ “Late Show with David Letterman.”

Johnson (oh, the double entendres again) later apologized. Yankee fans, enjoy it while it lasts. And before Mets fans get all schadenfreude-y, remember that you just got Pay-dro. Some exciting baseball ahead!