ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Braves acquired Mauricio Dubón in a trade from the Houston Astros for Nick Allen in an exchange of infielders Wednesday night.

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Dubón, 31, appeared in 133 games with Houston last season and batted .241 while earning his second Gold Glove, each time as a utility infielder. He also won a Gold Glove in 2023.

Dubón had a $5 million salary this year and is eligible for salary arbitration. He can become a free agent after the World Series.

The move clears some payroll for Houston while it aims to add pitching this offseason after finishing second in the AL West behind the Seattle Mariners and missing the playoffs in 2025.

“We’re trying to get creative in getting some pitching, and in doing so, pitching is going to cost, which is why people think (the trade) is a financial move,” Astros general manager Dana Brown said, per MLB.com. “(Astros owner) Jim Crane has always been dedicated and focused on spending money to make the team better.”

The 27-year-old Allen spent the first three years of his MLB career with the Athletics and slashed .221/.284/.251 in 135 games with Atlanta in 2025. He was one of the three finalists for the National League Gold Glove at shortstop.

Allen is eligible for arbitration for the first time and can become a free agent after the 2029 season.

“I think it’s a potential upside play,” Brown said of Allen. “You’re getting a little bit younger in your utility role. It’s a former high pick, he’s the speed package, he’s a really good defender on the infield. …  Maybe Nick Allen comes here and you get the bat going a little bit more and get around this culture and potentially turn the corner.”

Allen is the son of law of former Mariners All-Star Bret Boone.

Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos said Dubón can play all over the infield and outfield, and his role will be determined by what other moves the team makes this offseason. Anthopoulos said the Braves still may pursue a shortstop.

“I told him I don’t know what your role is going to be yet, but the fact that we have the flexibility to play him all over … he’s just a good piece,” Anthopoulos said.

Seattle Sports staff made additions to this post.

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