The MLB trade deadline pre-frenzy is so packed with misinformation and mis-applied buzz that it really helps to have genuine, earnest folks on the ground who are able to help clarify the current reality. John Brophy, a freelance reporter/photographer in Tampa who hangs around the Yankees' minor-league clubs (Low-A Tampa Tarpons, Florida Complex League games) certainly qualifies.
With the deadline buzz approaching a fever pitch, Newsday's Erik Boland listed the wide swath of teams that the Yankees have shown registered interest in dealing with, doing their scouting due diligence ahead of the finish line. These clubs include the Twins, Pirates, Orioles, Guardians, Diamondbacks, Reds, Braves, Rockies, and Mets — many likely sellers, a few borderline operations, and a crosstown rival that probably won't come to fruition, but you never know.