Mark Loretta to San Diego?

Continued rumblings of Mark Loretta heading back to San Diego may be supported by Astros' GM Tim Purpura, who is looking for help in the bullpen. The San Diego Union-Tribune also hinted at Loretta's return trip last week. While there are some rumblings that Loretta could be dealt in return for Scott Linebrink, it doesn't seem to be in the interest of the Astros to pick up Linebrink unless they can extend him for 2008 or beyond. Loretta will also be a free agent at the end of the season. From the Pads' perspective, one must wonder which player could result in a higher compensation draft pick when they move on for 2008 - an aspect that Kevin Towers and team will surely consider.