Johnson was in New York to take a physical with the Yankees following last week's swap that sent him from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the Big Apple.
The five-time Cy Young Award winner was walking down the street with Jerry Laveroni, the Yankees' director of team security, on Monday when the duo was approached by a CBS TV news cameraman.
"No cameras," said Johnson, who extended his right hand in an attempt to block the camera lens. "Get out of my face, that's all I ask," Johnson is heard saying on the video.
Randy Johnson argued with a cameraman in New York on Monday. (CP Photo)
"I'm just taking a picture," responded the cameraman.
"No you're not," said Johnson, as the camera continued to roll. "Don't get in my face. I don't care who you are...don't get in my face," Johnson yelled.
"I'm just taking a picture," the cameraman responded.
"Don't get in my face and don't talk back to me, alright," Johnson said, raising his voice again.
Johnson and Laveroni eventually managed to evade the cameraman.
The Yankees refused to comment on the incident, but Johnson later issued a statement apologizing for his actions.
"As I was on my way to take a physical, I hope that everyone will understand that the past two days have been overwhelming and I wish I had handled the situation differently," Johnson said in his statement.
"I am very sorry it happened."
Johnson, who will earn $16 million US in 2005, joins newcomers Carl Pavano and Jaret Wright to give the Yankees a $64 million pitching rotation. Veteran right-handers Mike Mussina and Kevin Brown round out the starting staff.
The Yankees are expected to introduce Johnson, 41, to the media on Tuesday.
Johnson, a 10-time all-star, was at the top of the Yankees wish list coming into this off-season after the team lost to the Boston Red Sox in seven games of the American League Championship Series.
Johnson went 16-14 with a 2.60 ERA in 35 starts this past season for Arizona, which finished a major-league worst 51-111.
with files from Sports Network
