The Cleveland Guardians returned to play on Friday after getting Thursday off.
That first game came against the Minnesota Twins in Progressive Field, in front of their fans, and it ended with a thrilling walk-off win in ten innings.
Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan saw his name circulate in just about every trade rumor you can imagine.
He could have been a Dodger, a Padre, a Phillie, an Astro, and we could go on.
No team, however, was able to meet the Guardians’ valuation of their leadoff hitter and left field star.
He ended up staying, and fans showed their happiness when his name was announced on Friday.
Ladies and gentlemen, Steven Kwan. pic.twitter.com/dvRTNR4UWD
— Michael Collier (@MikeACollier) August 1, 2025
He got a standing ovation and some loud cheers, as fans gave him a warm “welcome back.”
After the game, in which Kwan uncorked an impressive outfield assist, the player let the fans know how special they made him feel.
“Steven Kwan on reception from fans during first at-bat: “It was really special. Love the city, love this organization, love everything that they’ve offered me. I just really want to win for them and get in the postseason. Once you get in, anything can happen,” Chris Assenheimer posted with Kwan’s words.
Steven Kwan on reception from fans during first at-bat: “It was really special. Love the city, love this organization, love everything that they’ve offered me. I just really want to win for them and get in the postseason. Once you get in, anything can happen."
— Chris AssenheimerC-T (@CAwesomeheimer) August 2, 2025
With the win against Minnesota, Cleveland is 55-54, eight games behind the Detroit Tigers and three back in the fight for the last Wild Card.
Granted, not making any win-now moves could come back to haunt them, but the Guardians can still make the playoffs.
They need their young core to improve, C.J. Kayfus to be good upon arrival and help solve the team’s right field issues, and the rotation to keep up the good work without Luis Ortiz.
It will be hard, but the Guards have the foundation to cope without Emmanuel Clase.
They might not be favorites to make it into October, but retaining Kwan was certainly a shot in the arm.
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