Jim Johnson Appears on House of Cards, Is Buds With Kevin Spacey

Feb 18, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Oakland Athletics pitcher Jim Johnson (45) throws during a workout at Papago Park. Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Jim Johnson can’t exactly say he is pals with the Vice President of the United States, but he can say he’s pals with the fake Vice President of the United States.

It all started last year when the makers of Netflix’s acclaimed political potboiler House of Cards went to Camden Yards to film. Then-Orioles-reliever Johnson took the opportunity to cozy up to the show’s star Kevin Spacey, and the two hit it off.

The schmoozing led to Johnson scoring a cameo appearance on the show along with outfielder Nate McLouth. Such are the cruel ways of Hollywood that Johnson’s lines ended up being cut.

Johnson is still in the show though, in episode six to be exact. He still hasn’t seen it due to an internet issue at A’s spring training, but he’s heard about it from family and friends.

As for his friendship with Spacey, Johnson says the two still keep in touch.

And what’s it like working with Spacey when he goes into Francis Underwood mode?

“You know what was amazing, was watching him flip that switch and go into character. He automatically turned into Francis Underwood, and it was kinda creepy,” Johnson said.

I can see where that would be an unsettling experience. If you’ve seen the show, you know what I mean.

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