Sports briefs for February 2, 2005

Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2005 | 9:46 a.m.

Yogi Berra sues TBS over 'Sex & City' ad

Hall of Famer Yogi Berra has filed a $10 million lawsuit against TBS, claiming the cable television network sullied his name by using it in a racy advertisement for its "Sex & the City" reruns.

Berra's papers, filed in Manhattan's state Supreme Court, say the Turner Broadcasting System Inc. ad, which has appeared on buses and in subways, caused "severe damage to his reputation" with its reference to Kim Cattrall's sexually promiscuous character, Samantha.

The offending ad, Berra's court papers say, queried readers about the definition of "yogasm." Possible definitions: (a) a type of yo-yo trick, (b) sex with Yogi Berra and (c) what Samantha has with a guy from yoga class. The answer is (c).

The reference to the sexual act made in connection with Berra "engenders a moral taint that has damaged his otherwise spotless reputation," say his court papers.

Dodgers stop project

The Los Angeles Dodgers halted a project designed to protect their 43-year-old ballpark in the event of an earthquake. The work began under previous ownership. The team now says the project was unnecessary and Dodger Stadium is safe, the Los Angeles Times reported Tuesday.

Capt. Langer to play

Bernhard Langer, who last year masterminded Europe's biggest-ever Ryder Cup victory over the U.S., said he intends to be a playing member of the side for the next edition of golf's most prestigious team event. "I wish to end all speculation that I will serve a second term as captain," Langer said in a statement from the European tour. "Playing golf remains No. 1 on my priority list. I have made a solid start to this year and I intend to play a full schedule."

More talks today

The NHL and the players' association will hold their next round of labor talks today in yet another undisclosed location. Only Bill Daly, the NHL's chief legal officer, and outside counsel Bob Batterman were expected to represent the league, while NHLPA senior director Ted Saskin and attorney John McCambridge will take part for the players' association.

Kings keep Adelman

The Sacramento Kings exercised their one-year option on coach Rick Adelman, keeping him under contract through next season.