The Cleveland Guardians had a good season in 2025, all things considered.
Perhaps it shouldn’t have been as difficult, but given the lack of offensive firepower on their roster, they did more than most people anticipated.
Now, it’s time to make some moves.
Unfortunately, fans may not like one the organization may be considering.
According to insider Tim Stebbins, outfielder Steven Kwan could be on the trade block.
“Kwan’s name appeared on the rumor mill before the trade deadline. It would not be surprising if that is also the case this winter. He could bring back a lot of value as a two-time All-Star who may soon earn his fourth straight Gold Glove Award, and as a player who is arbitration-eligible through 2027. Those factors also continue to make him an extension candidate. The Guardians at least have the option to tap into their rotation depth in a trade scenario, especially if they pick up [John] Means’ option. But as the saying goes, teams can never have enough starting pitching,” Stebbins wrote.
Picking up Means’ option won’t be an easy decision.
On the one hand, he’s a proven veteran pitcher.
On the other hand, he’s struggled with injuries throughout his career, and it’s been a while since he proved what he was capable of.
As for Kwan, he’s arguably the Guardians’ second-best player behind third baseman Jose Ramirez, and there aren’t many instances in which parting with someone of his caliber has improved a team.
Kwan’s future with the organization has been a talking point for months.
The sides have failed to agree to a contract extension, but the fact that the Guardians turned down multiple trade offers for him this season gave fans hope about getting a deal done.
Even though he’s signed through the 2027 season and on a bargain contract, that doesn’t mean the team should keep him if he’s not happy.
Given Cleveland’s long history of moving on from expensive stars, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Kwan playing for someone else next season.
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