31.   But while the negotiators settled on the general shape of a possible deal, they fought in typically hard-bitten manner over the words to nail it in place.

32.   But whatever the status of a possible deal, opposition has been mounting.

33.   Cashman declines to talk about the substance of his trade talks, but the Yankees seem to be considering a wide range of possible deals.

34.   Clinton advisers declined to address the issue of testimony or discuss the specifics of a possible deal Tuesday.

35.   Deal Possible?

36.   Despite calling Charlotte officials and asking about a possible deal involving center Alonzo Mourning, the Mavericks never had a chance to sign him.

37.   Delta Airlines, which is said to have looked closely at a possible deal, took itself out of the running earlier this week.

38.   Detroit is looking for a center fielder, and Tigers general manager Randy Smith and Evans spoke about possible deals, sources said.

39.   Esrey said he had been fielding questions about possible deals for a decade.

40.   Evans has spent much of the last week speaking with clubs about possible deals.