Norichika Aoki is out of the lineup Wednesday against Houston.

Aoki is out of the lineup Wednesday against Houston.

Analysis:

Aoki is 6-for-42 in his last 11 games so a night off could serve him well to turn his slump around. Seth Smith, who is normally a DH/left fielder, will fill in for Aoki in left Wednesday night. The 34-year-old will likely return to the lineup Friday against Kansas City.