Steven Kwan is seemingly adapting just fine to his new role as the Cleveland Guardians’ primary center fielder. He has been charged with just one difficult error, and, after adjusting in the field, he is starting to come around to his usual form at the plate.
In Cleveland’s 21 games this season, Kwan has started 15 in center field and five in his former position of left field. His fielding percentage is actually slightly better than what he posted last season, when he won his fourth consecutive Gold Glove Award.
Kwan was recently honored for that achievement, as he received his latest Gold Glove trophy before the Guardians’ home game against the Baltimore Orioles.
“Steven Kwan received his fourth Gold Glove in as many seasons tonight,” the Guardians posted on X.
Steven Kwan received his fourth Gold Glove in as many seasons tonight.#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/egOD5Johqg
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) April 17, 2026
Kwan is one of only a handful of MLB players to win a Gold Glove in each of his first four seasons. Unfortunately, that streak could come to an end because of his splitting time between two outfield positions this year.
However, the two-time All-Star said he is willing to make that sacrifice if his versatility helps the team. In fact, it was Kwan who suggested the Guardians consider the move before preparations for the season began.
He already has a signature fielding moment at his new position. Against the St. Louis Cardinals, Kwan made a diving catch in left-center field and then threw to second base for a double play.
Last season, Kwan started all 152 of his games in left field. He doubled his career high by making eight errors, and his .976 fielding percentage was significantly lower than any previous year. He likely repeated as a Gold Glove winner by leading the majors in defensive runs saved and posting a career high 13 assists.
So far this season, he has just one error, when he bobbled a ball after chasing it down in the gap, in 32 center field chances, and no errors in 14 left field chances. At the plate, his batting average is up to .253 after a low of .216.
Hopefully, Kwan can make enough of an impression in center field to draw serious consideration for another Gold Glove Award that will continue his impressive streak.
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