Houston Astros manager Joe Espada describes Nick Allen as his Swiss Army knife, and the infielder’s return from the injured list couldn’t have come at a better time.
After being activated Monday after being out since June 8 with a hamstring strain, Allen was in the starting lineup in place of Jeremy Peña, who missed the game with a calf injury.
“I tried to (get healthy) as quick as possible and get back as soon as possible,” said Allen, who had a single and a walk in three plate appearances in Monday’s 5-4 loss to the Twins. “So, I’m excited to be back in the field. Body feels good and ready to rock, so I’m just happy to be out there.”
Espada said that Allen was originally going to play third Monday to give Isaac Paredes a break but slid over to short.
“He’s aware of his role, and does a really good job preparing,” Espada said.
The Astros acquired Allen, 27, in November from Atlanta in a trade for Mauricio Dubón. Allen played a career-high 135 games for the Braves in 2026 and was a Gold Glove finalist at shortstop.
Allen has missed 34 games for the Astros with back spasms in April and the hamstring strain in June. When he’s played this season — 38 games among second, short and third — he has a slash line of .258/.306 /.333.
Allen said his preparation for his return Monday was not impacted by Peña’s injury. Though he feels comfortable at shortstop, Allen said he hopes for Peña to return quickly.
“Hopefully, we can get Jeremy back as soon as possible,” Allen said. “He’s a key piece to what this team’s doing.”
Both Allen and Raynel Delgado figure to see playing time at shortstop with Peña out.
“I just want to be available and so if I can do that, then I’m doing my job right,” Allen said. “I’m just happy to be back, and wherever Joe needs me, I’m ready to play.”