Roto Riteup: Thursday, September 1st, 2011

– It’s a shame that Justin Morneau is still dealing with concussion symptoms a year later, isn’t it? Injuries have effectively derailed a career that looked to be so promising after a monster first half of 2010, but them the breaks. At this point, I’m not so sure I’d take a chance on Morneau next season outside of the last round or two of a barely deeper than normal draft. In large leagues (i.e. 20 teams), he’s worth a shot in latter half of the middle of your draft, but he shouldn’t be counted on to start for you week in and week out. Morneau is one of the few players I actually feel sorry for, and I sincerely hope he has a chance to get himself right this offseason.

– No one should be surprised, but Jesus Montero is coming to a major league roster near you today. The top prospect started the year off slowly, but he’s picked it up recently, killing the ball during the month of August. I doubt he’ll catch much for the Yankees, but he should at least DH against lefties. He should also see some starts against right-handed pitchers, too, as long as Jorge doesn’t catch fire when he’s getting the chance to play. I’d bet he hits for some decent power right away, but his batting average may struggle a bit as he gets used to major league pitching. If he’s still available in your keeper league and you have the roster space to live with him on your bench, go ahead and grab him.

– While Montero will be in pinstripes, pitching prospect Manny Banuelos will not be. The Yankees have opted to keep him in the minor leagues. I’m surprised Manny-Banny won’t be pitching in New York’s bullpen as a late inning lefty, but ultimately, this could be better for his development. If he was called up and hit around in his debut, his confidence could be diminished. I still suspect he’ll be in the Yankees’ rotation next season, so hold on in keeper leagues.

A Pitcher For Today: Jacob Turner vs KC
Turner could be a Tigers’ rotation mainstay starting next season, but for now, he’s being used to give the rest of the starters a rest. His stuff is quite good, so I’d be willing to take a chance on him against the Royals.

A Pitcher For Tomorrow: Kevin Millwood at SDP
The not so crafty veteran has posted solid strikeout and walk numbers, but he’s having big problems with the home run ball. Hopefully San Diego’s offense and ballpark will help him out on this day.

PickSix Lock of the Day: Jarrod Saltalammachia ($5.25) vs NYY (A.J. Burnett)
I mean, come on, it’s A.J. Burnett.
Prediction: 1-3, BB, 2B; 8.5 points
Last Week’s Predictions: 4 players, $52, 37.4 pts
All Past Predictions: 17 players, $273.50, 105.5 pts