Network Apologizes to Astros’ Owner

Telemundo’s chief executive apologized Monday to Houston Astro owner Drayton McLane for allegations by executives of its local affiliate that McLane made derogatory remarks about Hispanics.

“Based on my inquiry into the matter, and in reliance upon your representations to me . . . I believe that you did not make any racially motivated comments to our station management,” wrote Roland Hernandez, chief executive officer of Santa Monica-based Telemundo Group Inc. “Further, I believe you and the Houston Astros strongly support Hispanics.”

Marco Camacho, general manager of KTMD-TV, and sales manager Rod Rodriguez alleged last month that McLane made belittling remarks about Hispanics.

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Jose Canseco said he will do everything he can to try to return to the Tampa Bay Devil Rays after back surgery, but conceded that retirement is an option he might have to consider.

“My body has failed me again,” Canseco said during a telephone conference call from his hospital bed in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he had a 90-minute operation Sunday to repair a herniated disc.

“This to me is a nightmare with the year I’m having, the consistency I’ve had,” he said. “The timing couldn’t be worse. I was given all the ability in the world. Not to be able to use it is one of the worst things that can happen to a human being.”

Canseco, 35, leads the American League with 31 homers and was selected as the league’s starting designated hitter for tonight’s All-Star game at Boston.

“Obviously I’m depressed,” he said. “I can’t believe this happened.”

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New York Yankee outfielder Shane Spencer has been cleared to begin a rehabilitation program one week after being diagnosed for an irregular heartbeat.

Spencer, who was reevaluated at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, is in stable condition and his heartbeat is normal, according to the Yankees.