BOTTOM LINE: The Houston Astros take on the Los Angeles Angels after Kyle Tucker’s four-hit game on Friday. Houston has an 84-70 record overall and a 44-32 record in home games. The Astros are 37-14 in games when they did not give up a home run.

While one veteran continued to trend in the wrong direction relative to postseason roster construction, Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker took a crucial step toward showing he might be in prime condition should Houston qualify for the playoffs.

Three months since he fouled a ball off his right shin, Kyle Tucker appears on the cusp of returning to the Astros. When he does, Tucker’s prolonged absence leaves some question of what role and workload the slugging right fielder will initially be able to shoulder for a team in a postseason race.