Tim Lincecum Sues Minor-League Mascot “Dog Cy” for Identity Theft and Emotional Distress
Former Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum has filed what experts are already calling “the most delightfully avoidable lawsuit of the season” against Dog Cy, the scruffy canine mascot for a minor-league baseball team in central Pennsylvania.
According to legal documents released Monday, Lincecum alleges that Dog Cy—a medium-sized rescue mutt with an overbite and an unsettlingly confident strut—is “knowingly profiting from the goodwill, fame, and brand associations” of the pitcher’s own Cy Young legacy. The suit further claims that the mascot’s promotional appearances have caused fans to associate Lincecum with chew toys, halftime frisbee exhibitions, and the phrase “Who’s a good boy? YOU are!”
Team officials responded politely but firmly. “We respect Mr. Lincecum’s contributions to baseball,” said the team’s communications director, “but Dog Cy has been entertaining families for years. His record includes three seasons of perfect attendance, fifty-seven caught frisbees, and only two incidents requiring a visit from stadium maintenance.”
Witnesses at Saturday’s game reported that Dog Cy appeared unfazed by the legal drama, trotting along the baseline, accepting treats from children, and signing autographs with a paw-shaped stamp. At one point, the mascot gestured toward the press box as though to say, “Let the lawyers write their letters; I have work to do.”
Legal analysts differ on the merits of the case. Some say Lincecum has a steep hill to climb proving that a minor-league canine mascot is siphoning away his name recognition. Others point out that professional athletes have sued over stranger things, including, in one famous instance, a cartoon duck.
A representative for Lincecum insists the suit is about “protecting one’s personal brand.” The Dog Cy organization, meanwhile, has offered to settle the matter with a meet-and-greet, a ceremonial first pitch, and a year’s supply of organic dog snacks.
Early reports suggest Lincecum’s team declined the offer—though sources close to Dog Cy say he’s still open to negotiations, provided belly rubs are on the table.
