The Houston Astros have not been afraid to make moves this offseason, and that continued last week. In a move that caught Astros fans off guard, the team traded Gold Glove utility man Mauricio Dubón to the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday night for infielder Nick Allen.
The trade developed quickly over a few hours after reports surfaced Wednesday evening that teams were interested in Dubón.
The Astros followed through and traded the two-time Gold Glove winner, surprising many. Here’s why the Astros traded a fan favorite and one of the most valuable culture players in the clubhouse.
Why Mauricio Dubón Was Traded
Astros fans were shocked and disappointed to see such a well-known player traded. The simple answer for why he was traded is payroll.
2026 is Dubón’s final year of arbitration before his price will significantly go up. After winning his second Gold Glove and establishing himself as a premier utility man, Dubón’s value is currently at its highest. Dubón will be owed $5.8 million this season, according to MLB Trade Rumors, and Allen will be owed much less at $1.5 million.
The Astros will likely save around $4 million. Allen will also be heading into his first year of arbitration, giving Houston much more control over his salary and making him affordable with three years of team control remaining.
Forever grateful for you, Dubi.
Thank you for everything, wishing you the best of luck in Atlanta. pic.twitter.com/pN0s0cUsbf
— Houston Astros (@astros) November 20, 2025
At the end of the day, the Astros are trying to create a good amount of space in their payroll to likely sign a big free agent pitcher and upgrade that area of their team. That $4 million could be the difference in landing a much-needed starter.
While having one of the best utility men in the game was a major asset, the 31-year-old was not one of the best bats on the team, to put it lightly. His defense was very valuable, especially this season with all of Houston’s injuries.
More on Nick Allen
The Astros clearly downgraded to acquire Allen. Dubón is better in every category, but the ultimate reward of a big-time signing down the road could not be passed up. It remains to be seen whether the Astros can develop Allen the way they developed Dubón.
Allen was a Gold Glove nominee at shortstop, but that is obviously not the same as a two-time utility Gold Glove. Additionally, Allen is one of the weakest hitters in the majors. While Dubón did not have great numbers, he was at least serviceable and delivered some big moments.
Last season, Allen hit just .221 in 135 games with only a .535 OPS. Those numbers mark his career highs in his fourth season. There is little expectation for offensive improvement, but Houston hopes he can provide strong defense at multiple infield spots. However, Allen likely won’t match Dubón’s outfield ability.
Dubón’s Time in Houston
Acquired from the San Francisco Giants for catcher Michael Papierski in May 2022, Dubón quickly became a valuable bench player and clubhouse leader. His fun personality made him a fan favorite in Houston, a bond that strengthened over four seasons. Dubón was a familiar Astros face on social media and even started appearing in local commercials.
The only major league player from Honduras, there was no doubt about Dubón’s elite defense. He made highlight-reel catches, remained reliable in the outfield, and played every position except catcher this season while posting strong defensive metrics.
Last season, Dubón hit .241 with a .644 OPS in 133 games. He tallied seven home runs and 33 RBI. 2023 was his best season with the Astros, as he not only won the utility Gold Glove, but hit a career-best .279 with a .720 OPS. He was a true utility player that season and hit double-digit home runs with 10 and drove in 46 runs.
How the Astros are Creating Space
Dubón was not the only one whom the Astros let go. Houston released longtime outfielder Chas McCormick, pitcher Luis Garcia, and designated utility man Ramón Urías for assignment to create room in payroll. The Astros were likely to non-tender both Dubón and Urías, as they only had one year of control left.
Ultimately, what the Astros do with the payroll space will determine whether the trade was worthwhile. It will likely be looked at more positively if it creates the chance to sign a starter and a reliever.
Right now, Astros fans are heartbroken that another one of their favorites has left the team. Dubón posted a heartfelt goodbye on Instagram with a picture of his 1-year-old son, Luciano.
Dubón’s message to Houston, via his Instagram pic.twitter.com/H8aBiRRXXo
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) November 20, 2025
Main Photo Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images
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