Rangers' Washington admits drug use

SURPRISE, Ariz., March 17 (UPI) -- Texas Rangers Manager Ron Washington admitted to illegal drug use during the 2009 season in an apology he released Wednesday.

Washington, 57, said he was sorry for "careless, dangerous, and frankly, stupid behavior last year" when he used an illegal drug last July. Sports Illustrated reported the drug was cocaine.

He said he took the drug just before being notified of a routine drug test. He told baseball officials he'd used an illegal substance and offered the Rangers' front office his resignation, which was refused.

As a first offender, Washington was ordered to participate in a counseling program, which he said he completed. He also said he would agree to be tested for drugs more than the once-a-year agreement in place for managers and coaches.

"I am truly sorry for my careless, dangerous, and frankly, stupid, behavior last year," Washington said. "I am not here to make excuses. There are none. I fully understand that I disappointed a lot of people -- my family, my players, coaches, as well as the team's leadership, especially (team President) Nolan Ryan and (General Manager) Jon Daniels, as well as young people who may have looked up to me."

Washington last season completed his third as manager of the Rangers, leading the team to an 87-75 record, the first winning record for Texas since 2004.