Walker drove in the Astros’ lone run in Sunday’s 1-0 win and had a big homer Tuesday off Paul Skenes, but the hot streak that seemed to be building up hasn’t really materialized. He’s 3-for-19 with 10 strikeouts in his last six games, pushing him back down to .208/.272/362 for the season.

Walker sat out Thursday’s game as a precautionary measure after getting hit by a pitch on the hand during Wednesday’s game. He’s doing much better after the night off though and will return to his regular post at first base. Walker will bat cleanup against Rays’ right-hander Ryan Pepiot on Friday evening in Houston.

Walker was removed from Wednesday’s game after being hit in the hand by a pitch. Fortunately, X-rays came back negative for any fractures, but he’s still dealing with some soreness and swelling, so he’ll get at least an extra day to rest before returning to action. Victor Caratini will cover first base in his absence on Thursday and will bat cleanup for the Astros against Shane Baz and the Rays.