Morning Links: Rockies News 3/28

The Rockies lost to the Oakland A’s 6-5 yesterday in Jhoulys Chacin’s final outing before the season opener. The team plays its final game at Salt River Fields for the year when it takes on the Milwaukee Brewers this afternoon. Here’s what else is happening with the Rockies and around the NL West.

Brignac. Image: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

From Patrick Saunders: Rockies option DJ LeMahieu to minors; Brignac expected to make roster (Denver Post)

"DJ LeMahieau, the Rockies’ steady starting second baseman for the last two months of the 2012 season, was optioned to Triple-A Wednesday afternoon. That leaves Jonathan Herrera and newcomer Reid Brignac to battle for the final infield utility spot.Brignac is the favorite to make the final roster. Why? He is a left-handed hitter, is out of options and his natural position is shortstop. All of that means he’s got the inside track to stick with the club over Herrera. Both Herrera and LeMahieau still have minor-league options."

From Craig Calcaterra: MLB says no to padded caps for pitchers (HardBall Talk)

"(Brandon) McCarthy himself tested the caps and said, unequivocally, that they’re no good as far as feel and functionality. Which is really going to be the key to such caps being used anyway. Pitching mechanics are sensitive enough. Having a hat that feels weird is certain to throw many pitchers off."

From Richie Smith: April Will Make Or Break 2013 For The Padres (Chicken Friars)

"The Padres play 18 games in April, of their 26 total, against division opponents, including six against the World Series Champs Giants and six against the new look Dodgers. The Padres had sub-500 records against both of those teams last season. There’s also six games mixed in with the Rockies as well."