Roto Riteup — Presented by DraftKings: May 7, 2014

It’s Wednesday, I’m tired, so let’s just get to the Roto Riteup, shall we?

On today’s agenda:
1. Clayton Kershaw returns
2. Gavin Floyd Debuts
3. Tyler Lyons shines
4. Erasmo Ramirez to start today
5. The Farmer’s Five

Clayton Kershaw returns
Kershaw picked up the win against the Nationals this evening, striking out nine over seven innings without walking a batter or giving up a homer. Even though he’s only made two starts this year, he’s been absolutely awesome, proving why he should have been far-and-away the first pitcher off the board in every league (even AL-only). If you own him, enjoy.

Gavin Floyd debuts
A little over 365 days after his last start, Floyd returned to the majors, this time as a member of the Atlanta Braves. Floyd had a solid outing, striking out five while lasting seven innings, walking two. Floyd has long been a solid MLB starter — not one who’ll be your ace, but one who can be a solid number three starter. If you want to watch a earthshaking curveball, I suggest watching Floyd pitch, after which you’ll be intrigued by his stuff and demand ownership of him in every league. Floyd may be on the wrong side of 30, but he’s still got something left in the tank.

Tyler Lyons shines
Continuing to fill in for Joe Kelly, Lyons struck out seven Braves in six innings of work, walking one and allowing four hits. Kelly was actually supposed to be back around this time, but he’s encountered a setback and doesn’t have much of a projected return anymore, making Lyons more valuable. The left-hander isn’t a game changer, but he’s got some talent and should be utilized in NL-only leagues. Even better, Lyons is scheduled to make two starts next week.

Erasmo Ramirez to start today
While nothing has been made official, Erasmo has been with the team and looks to be in line to start the second game of the Mariners doubleheader against Oakland. Erasmo stunk it up after his first start of the season, and he didn’t exactly show any better control in two minor league starts. Erasmo has the potential to be a solid fantasy option like he was in 2012, but don’t bet on him turning things around until he’s proved it a time or three.

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The Farmer’s Five

SP: Mike Minor, $7,800
Minor gets to stay at home against a Cardinals offense that has struggled this year.

SP: Bud Norris, $7,100
Norris away from Baltimore is tempting, so I’m giving in to said temptation.

C: Alex Avila, $3,100
OF: Austin Jackson, $4,500
OF: Torii Hunter, $4,600

The Tigers go against Brad Peacock, who isn’t very good.

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