Payton, Lo Duca willing to accept minor-league assignments if necessary

TUCSON — A month ago, outfielder Jay Payton and catcher Paul Lo Duca arrived in camp as insurance. That hasn’t changed, but they have turned heads with their solid play. Payton and Lo Duca both said they would be willing to go to Triple-A. They don’t have escape clauses in their contracts, so it’s basically accept the assignment or face retirement. However, I firmly believe the Rockies would do right by them if another team expressed interest in a trade or waiver claim. “I would go down to Colorado Springs. I think I have shown I can still play and that I can help somebody,” said Payton, who made a diving catch in center field earlier this week. Payton could be an interesting piece for a team looking for reserve help. In years’ past, he would have been a perfect fit for the Rockies, but they have the deepest bench in baseball. Payton can play all three outfield spots, and profiles as a decent pinch-hitter against left-handers. Lo Duca has ...