Sports briefs for January 28, 2004

Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2004 | 11:28 a.m.

University of Minnesota athletic director Joel Maturi said today he is investigating recruiting practices within the Gophers' football program after learning that high school prospects went to several Minneapolis bars and a strip club during an official recruiting visit in December.

Three prospects acknowledged Tuesday that they were part of a group that visited bars as minors and that several were served alcohol. A group also went to "Deja Vu," a downtown strip club that admits patrons 18 and older and does not serve alcohol.

Gophers coach Glen Mason was out of town and unavailable for comment. Director of football operations Tim Allen said coaches are not allowed to discuss recruits, according to NCAA rules, but said: "We certainly don't condone that type of actions."

Cora's arm broken

The Los Angeles Dodgers will be without second baseman Alex Cora for 4-6 weeks after his right arm was broken in a Puerto Rican winter league game.

Pitino eyes return

University of Louisville coach Rick Pitino, who entered the Cleveland Clinic on Monday for treatment of "urological-related" pain, said he could be back on the Cardianls' bench as early as Saturday's home game against Marquette.

Davies challenges men

Laura Davies, Britain's most successful female golfer, will become the first woman to compete on the European PGA tour when she plays next month in the ANZ Championship in Salamander Bay, Australia.

Lalas gets GM post

Former U.S. national team star Alexi Lalas was hired as president and general manager of the San Jose Earthquakes.