Roto Riteup: May 14, 2013

Today’s Roto Riteup was written while the latest Nerdist podcast (warning: language) episode played through the speakers. The guest for that particular episode was fellow South Korean Steven Yeun, star on The Walking Dead, but perhaps more recognizable as being a former Kalamazoo, Michigan resident. Perhaps one day Steven, Adam Rosales, and the present author will meet up. A man can dream.

On today’s agenda:
1. Justin Masterson is maddening
2. The return of Neil Walker
3. Curtis Granderson may return today
4. Aaron Hicks flashes his power
5. Austin Jackson and Avisail Garcia

Justin Masterson is maddening
After cruising through New York Yankees lineup with a complete game shut out, Justin Masterson has officially confounded the author. Masterson allowed just seven base runners and struck out nine Yankees while throwing 79 of 118 pitching for strikes. For the season, Masterson is now sitting on a 3.14 ERA/3.09 FIP/3.67 xFIP and the author has no idea what to do. A current team log stats that for the author’s team, he has produced a 6.16 ERA and 1.58 WHIP in 19 innings. Masterson has been throwing more sliders this year and that has helped his sinker generate his traditionally great GB%. Left-handed hitters always pose a threat to him, but Masterson has begun to quell doubts, but he is a great spot starter. He deserves a rotation spot on your roster, but be wary of his match ups.

The return of Neil Walker
The Pittsburgh Pirates activated Neil Walker from the 15-day disabled list yesterday and while he went hitless, having him back is a good sign. Now that he is back Walker makes for a solid grab at your 2B/MI spot. He is currently owned in just 47% of Yahoo! leagues, 41% of ESPN formats, and 66% of CBS leagues.

Curtis Granderson may return today
While nothing has been confirmed, the New York Yankees may activate Curtis Granderson today. Coming off of back-to-back 40 home run seasons, Granderson won’t hit that mark this year, but a good season is possible. There is legitimate doubt regarding his post-injury power potential, but even if he only manages 20 home runs, his other counting statistics should be worthwhile. The Yankees outfield is quite full as of now, so expect Granderson to be eased into an everyday role. Injury rebounds are always a big gamble, and while initially skeptical, the author is considering making moves for Granderson in multiple leagues.

Aaron Hicks flashes his power
The batting average still isn’t there, but Hicks did launch two home runs yesterday. He always drew a walk and now has a 12.4% walk rate. His 28.9% strikeout rate is still not what owners are looking for, but prior to yesterday’s game, Hicks’ previous week showed a .235/.278/.353 line. That isn’t enough to be owned in standard mixed leagues, but it is an improvement over his .152/.256/.287 seasonal line. Hicks needs to show more power or more average — or even more steals — before he should be owned in redraft leagues.

Austin Jackson and Avisail Garcia
The Detroit Tigers moved Austin Jackson to the 15-day disabled list with a strained left hamstring. Replacing him is prospect Avisail Garcia who was hitting Triple-A pitching to a .432/.447/.541 line, thanks largely in part to a .577 BABIP. His walk rate is still quite low and his strikeout rate is a bit high, but Garcia is worth a look in deep leagues or people scrambling for outfield help. Garcia won’t offer much in terms of power or speed, but his batting average should be sound and the lineup he’ll be hitting in is top notch.