Return of the Big Unit?

At 6'10'' Randy Johnson has been an intimidating presence on the mound during his tours in Montreal, Seattle, Houston, and Arizona. Prior to the 2005 season the Yankees wanted the dominating lefty to impose his stature and incredible fastball on AL opponents as their ace. While he still has not fulfilled that role, he took important steps in last night's victory towards gaining more respect from AL Opponents and Yankee enthusiasts everywhere. Johnson pitched effectively through 6 1/3 innings before being ejected for throwing high and tight to Indians outfielder Eduardo Perez. He looked sharp throughout, and more importantly, showed confidence in his pitches. At times this season he has shown his frustration and demonstrated lapses in his focus. Right up until his last pitch it was apparent that he had complete command.

In the bottom of the sixth both teams were issued warnings when Indians starter Jason Johnson hit Jorge Posada on the elbow, infuriating the Yankee catcher and leading to verbal jousting between the two. While it certainly did not seem intentional, Posada escalated the situation with his displeasure. Once the Yankees opened up a 6-1 lead, it became obvious that retaliation was coming. With one out in the top of the seventh, Randy Johnson brought a high fastball in on Perez that made its way to the backstop. As expected, the Unit was tossed but greeted by the Yankee fans with a standing ovation and roaring "Ran-dy" chants. For several reasons, last night could have been his most important start as a Yankee. First of all, he began to erase doubts that his head may not be in the game. He did not moan over every call that he disagreed with and remained focused on every pitch. There has also been concern that he does not feel comfortable having Posada as his battery mate. Not only did he pitch effectively, he stood up for his catcher after Posada got hit by a pitch. The statement Johnson made as an intimidator would have been satisfactory for any of his teammates, but backing up a player he has been at odds with spoke volumes.