Astros Swap Out Allen for Shewmake, Banking on a Former First-Rounder to Fix Early Infield Troubles
The Houston Astros made a pair of roster moves Monday that signal early season adjustments are already underway. They placed infielder Nick Allen on the injured list due to back spasms while simultaneously selecting the contract of newly acquired infielder Braden Shewmake from Triple-A Sugar Land to take his spot on the active roster.
Allen's Early Struggles Send Him to the Shelf
Allen, 27, was hitting .250 with five runs scored over 14 games before landing on the IL. The move comes as the Astros look to shuffle their infield depth early in the season. Over his career with the Athletics (2022-25) and Astros, Allen has compiled a .214 average with nine home runs and 65 RBIs across 396 games. The back spasms will keep him sidelined for now, giving Houston a chance to see what else they have in the pipeline.
🎲 Want to Make Tonight's Game More Interesting?
Kalshi lets you trade on real sports outcomes — not just spreads. It's the only federally regulated prediction market in the US, and it's available right here in Washington state.
New users get a FREE $10 just for signing up — no deposit required to claim it.
👉 Claim Your Free $10 at KalshiShewmake Gets His Shot After Yankees Trade
Shewmake arrives in Houston as a former first-round draft pick of the Atlanta Braves in 2019. The 28-year-old was acquired in a trade with the New York Yankees on Sunday, and now gets an opportunity to prove himself at the big league level. In 31 major league games split between the Braves and Chicago White Sox, Shewmake is a career .118 hitter with one home run and four RBIs. Houston is betting that a change of scenery and a fresh start could unlock something better than what we've seen so far.
Additional Roster Moves
In related news, the Astros outrighted right-hander J.P. France to Triple-A Sugar Land. France, 31, posted an 8.10 ERA over three outings this season and was designated for assignment last week before clearing waivers. He carries a 4.49 ERA in 34 appearances (28 starts) across parts of four seasons with the club.
The team also moved right-hander Cristian Javier to the 60-day injured list due to a shoulder issue, creating additional roster flexibility as Houston navigates the early weeks of the season.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about INF Nick.
View X conversation →This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.