The Cleveland Guardians face a defining moment as the MLB trade deadline approaches.
With speculation swirling around potential moves, one player has emerged as the center of heated discussions throughout baseball circles.
Steven Kwan’s name continues surfacing in trade rumors, but those closest to the organization believe any deal involving the outfielder would be a massive mistake.
When former MLB player Carlos Baerga recently appeared on the BIGPLAY podcast, he was asked directly about the possibility of trading Kwan.
“No! No, no, no, no, no, we need him,” Baerga said.
Our crew has taken a firm stance on the Steven Kwan trade rumors. 😂😂 #GuardsBall
"It's just a no."
"No, no, no, no, no."
– @BaergaCarlos pic.twitter.com/TgDzixqgFQ
— Carlos Baerga Show (@BaergaShow) July 20, 2025
Kwan has delivered another stellar season in 2025, maintaining his reputation as one of baseball’s most consistent contact hitters.
He’s slashing .285/.345/.396 with six home runs, 32 RBIs, 11 stolen bases, and 103 hits across 92 games.
His back-to-back All-Star selections and three Gold Gloves showcase his two-way value, while his remarkable 8.4% strikeout rate continues to set him apart from peers.
The trade speculation stems from Cleveland’s offensive struggles and uncertain postseason prospects.
Some executives believe the Guardians should capitalize on Kwan’s significant trade value while he remains under club control through 2027.
However, insider reports suggest the Guardians view Kwan as untouchable, placing him alongside José Ramírez, Emmanuel Clase, and Cade Smith as core players who won’t be moved.
The organization reportedly is working toward a contract extension with Kwan, indicating their commitment to building around him rather than cashing in on his current value.
Kwan represents more than just statistical production for Cleveland.
He provides clubhouse leadership and fan appeal while serving as one of the few consistent offensive contributors.
With the Guardians’ outfield depth remaining questionable and few prospects approaching Kwan’s ceiling, trading him could create significant long-term problems for a team already searching for offensive stability.
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