Payne did not play in a game in 2020 due to the cancellation of the minor league season because of the COVID-19 pandemic.[2] Payne spent the majority of the 2021 season with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies, also appearing in 1 game for the Triple-A Iowa Cubs, hitting a cumulative .231/.291/.363 with 4 home runs and 30 RBI in 60 games. On October 3, 2021, Payne was selected to the 40-man roster and promoted to the major leagues for the first time.[3] He made his major league debut that day as a pinch hitter.[4] He was designated for assignment by the team on October 18.[5] On November 16, Payne re-signed with the Cubs on a minor league contract for the 2022 season.[6]
In 2022, Payne played in 48 games for Triple–A Iowa, hitting .298/.335/.397 with one home run and 15 RBI.[7] He elected free agency following the season on November 10, 2022.[8]
Los Angeles Angels
On May 25, 2023, Payne signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Angels organization.[9] In 44 games for the Double–A Rocket City Trash Pandas, he batted .313/.369/.472 with 4 home runs and 26 RBI.[10]
On October 13, 2023, Payne re–signed with the Angels on a new minor league contract for the 2024 season.[11] He became a free agent after the 2024 season.[12]