Don't pay to check bag, wait until at gate and see if they start asking people to gate check (free). The problem is the gate agents and or flight attendants don't follow their own rules. People drag their entire house on and no one says a word to them. But I digress. Row 6 is very comfortable and spacious so go for it - I'm sure you can find overhead space somewhere. I will not put my purse where I can;t see it as all my money and credit cards and stuff is in it.
If you have 2 pieces both must go up as there is no seat in front of you to put under a seat. I'm sot sure how the other EMS seats are to be able to stretch out but depending how tall you are might be fine.