Astros Done Trading?

Tomorrow is the trade deadline for Major League Baseball, which is pretty much like shopping on Christmas Eve, but with Eric Gagne playing the part of Tickle Me Elmo. The much-maligned Astros have already made one head-scratching trade leading up to the deadline, picking up exactly what they needed in 3B/2B/1B/OF Ty Wigginton: another clean-cut white guy who plays no position in particular. But what is next for GM Tim Purpura?

Mark Loretta (who has been playing shortstop since Adam Everett’s injury) is receiving significant attention on the trade market, especially since the Phillies lost 2B Chase Utley to a broken hand last week. The Padres, Yankees, and Mariners have also been mentioned as possible destinations for Loretta, according to ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark (subscription required). Mike Lamb is also receiving attention as the Astros need to clear a log jam at third base.

As the teams still in their respective pennant races try to find that last piece of the puzzle on the road to the World Series, several Astros relief pitchers are appearing on their wish lists. The Red Sox, Tigers, and Mets have all been interested in Brad Lidge at various points this season, and the beleaguered closer would probably benefit from a change of scenery.

Purpura has proven time and time again that he’s capable of making decisive moves at the trade deadline. The only problem is that they’re rarely smart moves. The Astros do have marketable assets that could be used to acquire talented prospects for the years to come; but that’s just what they’d expect us to do. We predict Lidge and Loretta get sent to the Yankees for Miguel Cairo and one of George Steinbrenner’s old neckties. Tune in to Houstonist for ongoing updates.

---
Photo: Flickr user Scott Ableman