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 More Athletics NewsAthletics LinksKen Macha sat struggling outfielder Jay Payton (.170, no RBI) for the third time in four games, but Payton is taking it in stride. He had an animated chat with Macha before a game on the last homestand, but Macha said Payton since has been understanding about the situation. The A's are playing hot Nick Swisher in left field, while giving first baseman Dan Johnson every opportunity to break out of his slump. That's left Payton the odd man out. Payton's agent, Craig Landis, recently spoke to A's general manager Billy Beane, according to a person familiar with talks, but Payton is making $4 million in his option year, scaring off -- for now -- potential suitors. "It's too early for (a trade)," said Landis, who would not divulge whether he spoke to Beane. "We'll see how it shakes out. He's not happy sitting on the bench. But it's early in the season and we'll see what shapes up. Jay is like most players -- even more so -- he wants to play." |
