Astros' Christian Walker Cleared of Oblique Strain After MRI

The first baseman, who dealt with a similar injury last season, will return to spring training and be eased back into action.

Christian Walker underwent an MRI after feeling tightness in his left oblique during batting practice on Wednesday, which revealed no strain.
Walker missed over a month last season with a left oblique strain but stated this injury feels significantly less severe.
The Astros signed Walker to a three-year, $60 million contract in December, making him their biggest offseason acquisition.
While Walker recovers, the Astros are using Jon Singleton, Victor Caratini, and prospect Zach Dezenzo as first-base options during spring training games.
Walker, a three-time Gold Glove winner, is expected to play a key role in the Astros' lineup after a strong three-season stretch with 95 home runs and an .813 OPS.