Texas Ranger manager tested positive for cocaine last year

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington failed a Major League Baseball test for cocaine last season, but has apologized and will keep his job.

“I had a very weak moment,” Washington said at a news conference today. “I did wrong, and I take responsibility for that and I’m sorry.”

Washington said he used cocaine only once and called it “stupid behavior.” The 57-year-old manager met with his players earlier in the day and told them about testing positive in July.

The failed test was first reported by SI.com.

Washington said he offered to resign after the drug test. He said he was grateful team president Nolan Ryan and Jon Daniels kept him on.

Washington’s contract was extended last year for 2010 before the drug test. His contract expires after this season, which will be his fourth with Texas.

SI.com said Washington informed the commissioner’s office and team management about using cocaine before the results of his test came back. The Web site said Washington has been subject to increased testing since then, and has passed every subsequent test.