Cito Gaston Apologizes . . . Sort Of

Cito Gaston apologized Thursday for suggesting earlier in the week that three local reporters were racists. The apology, however, came with a strong qualification.

“I’ve got one statement that I’m going to say ... and I’m not going to say another word,” the Toronto manager said before the Blue Jays’ 5-4 victory over Oakland.

“Whatever has been said, whatever has been written, if it has offended someone and it’s unjustly offended them, I apologize. If it hasn’t, then I don’t apologize.”

When pressed, Gaston said neither he nor his family has experienced racism in Toronto.

*

Minnesota put Paul Molitor, who was hurt Sunday in a home-plate collision with Kansas City catcher Mike Macfarlane, on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to April 14, because of an abdominal strain. The Twins recalled outfielder Brent Brede from triple-A Salt Lake City to replace him.

*

Kansas City put outfielder Jermaine Dye on the 15-day disabled list because of a possible stress fracture of his left foot. The Royals called up catcher Mike Sweeney from triple-A Omaha to take his spot.

Dye, acquired from Atlanta for outfielder Michael Tucker in a trade March 27, hurt the foot in spring training while still with the Braves.

The injury worsened this week when the Royals played on the artificial turf of Toronto’s SkyDome. The Royals consider the injury minor and have no plans to try to void the trade, a team spokesman said.

Dye’s foot will be immobilized for seven to 10 days and treated as a stress fracture.