The Cleveland Guardians aren’t known for their aggressive approach to the trade deadline.
If anything, they’re always more likely to part with stars than to add them.
Unfortunately for fans, that might be the case again this season.
The Guardians struggled mightily in June, and though they could still finish strong and aren’t that far behind in the AL Wild Card race, other teams might feel like their stars could be had at the right price.
With that in mind, ESPN insider Jeff Passan claimed that the Philadelphia Phillies could make a compelling offer for closer Emmanuel Clase and outfielder Steven Kwan.
“As long as the Phillies are aiming high — and nobody aims high quite like (executive) Dave Dombrowski — perhaps they could take a run at landing both Clase and Steven Kwan from Cleveland. Maybe it would take Andrew Painter. Maybe Aidan Miller. Maybe Justin Crawford. Regardless, the Phillies’ window is closing, and getting both club control (Clase is under contract through 2028 and Kwan through 2027) and cost certainty (Clase is due $26 million for the next three years and Kwan less than $20 million for two) would make dealing high-end prospects significantly more palatable,” Passan wrote.
Truth be told, that’s an enticing offer, and the type of deal the Guardians are usually tempted to make.
Then again, losing a player of Kwan’s caliber might be too big a blow.
He’s been the team’s second-best player behind Jose Ramirez for years, and though he will be in for a huge raise once he becomes eligible for arbitration, he’s still on a team-friendly contract.
It makes sense to consider moving on from Clase, who has fallen from grace this season, but he’s still valuable and considered to be one of the best closers in baseball.
As tempting as the Phillies’ offer might be, the Guardians shouldn’t look to part with Kwan right now, especially while an AL Wild Card is within reach.
NEXT: Analyst Notes How Guardians Can Return To Playoff Mix
