Nashville SC trade F McKinze Gaines to Dynamo

Nashville SC were wheeling and dealing Monday, trading winger McKinze Gaines to the Houston Dynamo and making another swap with the Philadelphia Union.

Nashville received $75,000 in 2025 general allocation money from the Dynamo in exchange for Gaines, 26.

"McKinzie is a dynamic attacker who can stretch the field with his speed and 1v1 ability," Houston general manager Pat Onstad said. "We are excited to welcome McKinzie back to his home state of Texas and look forward to him contributing to our team's success."

Gaines has one assist in four MLS matches (one start) this season. He has three goals and six assists in 55 career matches (21 starts) with Austin FC (2021), Charlotte FC (2022-23) and Nashville.

Nashville also acquired international roster slots in 2024 and 2025 from the Union in return for sending a guaranteed $350,000 in 2025 general allocation money to Philadelphia.