[naviga:h3]Utley suspended 2 playoff games[/naviga:h3]

NEW YORK — Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Chase Utley was banned for two playoff games by Major League Baseball following his late takeout slide that broke New York Mets shortstop Ruben Tejada’s right leg.

Utley’s agent called the penalty “outrageous and completely unacceptable” and said there would be an appeal.

[naviga:h3]USC coach taking leave of absence[/naviga:h3]

LOS ANGELES — Southern California coach Steve Sarkisian is taking an indefinite leave of absence after athletic director Pat Haden determined that the troubled coach is “not healthy.”

Haden announced the decision in a hastily called news conference after Sarkisian didn’t show up for practice.

“I think it’s the right thing for our team, and I’ve always got to do what’s right for our team and for our school,” Haden said.

[naviga:h3]Baylor now No. 2 in AP Top 25 poll[/naviga:h3]

UNDATED — Baylor is No. 2 and Utah is up to fourth behind No. 1 Ohio State in The Associated Press college football poll.

The Bears have their best ranking ever. They reached No. 3 three times previously, including once last season.

Voters spread first-place votes around to six teams in the Top 25 released Sunday. The Buckeyes received 27, down 11 (38) from last week. Baylor has 13 and Utah has 16. No. 3 TCU received three first-place votes and No. 5 Clemson and No. 9 Texas A&M each received one.