The Cleveland Guardians didn’t go as far as they hoped this season.
However, that wasn’t Steven Kwan’s fault.
Along with third baseman Jose Ramirez, the outfielder was one of the few bright spots on the team all year long, and though he went through some slumps at the plate, he was always stellar on defense.
That’s why he’s a candidate to win another significant MLB honor, and he would make franchise history with that distinction.
“Kwan, meanwhile, appears to have a good chance to win his fourth Gold Glove Award in as many seasons in the big leagues. Doing so would place him in exclusive company. Kenny Lofton is the only outfielder in Cleveland franchise history to win the award four times,” Tim Stebbins wrote.
Unfortunately, this might also be the last time Kwan wins the award as a member of the Guardians.
There have been rumblings about his future with the organization dating back to last season.
Kwan is under club control through the 2027 season, and the team has reportedly tried to work out a contract extension, but given that there have been few updates about the situation, it seems like the parties may be far apart in negotiations.
As such, the Guardians could look to capitalize on his trade value instead.
They reportedly turned down several offers before the deadline this season, with the San Diego Padres being one of his most aggressive suitors.
Now, with the MLB offseason about to begin once the World Series ends, those trade talks could pick up again.
There will always be hope that the Guardians and Kwan can agree on an extension to keep him on the team for years to come, with more Gold Gloves in the future.
NEXT: Analyst Questions Guardians’ Success After Trading Four Key Players
