"At this stage in my career, it's important for me to branch out," said Person in a press conference held in the Hillsborough County Courthouse.  "I don't want to be pigeonholed as a typical jock.  I need to stretch my wings a little."

Person went on to announce that he will be receiving career advice from fellow sports stars-turned-celebrities Ray Lewis and O.J. Simpson.

"These two guys set the standard for sports/entertainment crossovers," said Person.  "I hope to be just like them someday."

According to Tampa Police Sgt. Dave Morris, Person's arresting officer/co-star, Person has a legitimate shot at doing just that.  "He was a consummate pro," said Morris of Person.  "The way he withheld his name when we asked him for identification, his profane verbal abuse, and the continuing stream of threats he used were all top-notch.

"And when he tried to kick out the windows of the police car, I thought to myself, 'We're going to be seeing a lot more of this guy.'"

Lee Whitberry, executive producer of "Cops", also believes Person will be a star.  Whitberry was so thrilled with Person's work on the show that he signed the pitcher to appear in three more episodes, for which Person will receive a carton of cigarettes and one phone call.

"He's got that Martin Lawrence/Eddie Murphy kind of appeal," said Whitberry.  "He can make you laugh, whether he's starting a fight, robbing a convenience store, or just running down the street screaming profanity."

Whitberry said he's interested in signing more major leaguers as well.  "There's an enormous talent pool in major league baseball," added Whitberry.  "I'm sure there are many, many other players who have the talent, temper, and disrespect for the law necessary to become stars."

Carl Everett and Armando Benitez were busy posting bail and were unavailable for comment.