New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner was more gracious about Wednesday night's Game 7 loss to the Boston Red Sox after being up 3 games to none than he was about losing the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1981 after being up 2-0.

His statements then and now:

2004: ``I congratulate the Boston Red Sox on their great victory. I want to thank our loyal fans for their enormous support. Of course, I am disappointed because I wanted a championship for them and for our city. You can be assured, we will get to work and produce a great team next year.''

1981: ``I want to sincerely apologize to the people of New York and to the fans of the New York Yankees everywhere for the performance of the Yankee team in the World Series. I also want to assure you that we will be at work immediately to prepare for 1982.''