When the Cleveland Guardians announced that star outfielder Steven Kwan was removed from Friday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, many fans started to panic because the team, initially, didn’t provide an explanation.
Then, a few minutes later, they said it was a precautionary measure because he was dealing with body fatigue.
That bit of information calmed people down a bit.
The game proceeded and the Guardians lost.
After the game, however, the organization provided a slightly more concerning update.
“Guardians said Steven Kwan will have tests on his back tomorrow,” Cleveland sports reporter Tom Withers posted on X.
Guardians said Steven Kwan will have tests on his back tomorrow.
— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) September 14, 2024
We have seen many seasons being derailed by chronic back issues, but we have no reason to think this will be the case until we know more.
All we know is that he is going for further tests and imaging on his back, which can help the team rule out some things and confirm others.
The team is obviously hoping that there is nothing structurally a wrong with Kwan’s back, because an injured list stint at this point of the season would be catastrophic.
After a brilliant first half in which he struggled with a .400 batting average at one point, Kwan is hitting .291 with 13 home runs (a career high), 12 stolen bases and a .783 OPS.
Even if he has been ice-cold after the break, the Guardians need their leadoff man and Gold Glove-caliber left fielder for the stretch run and the postseason.
Everybody in Cleveland is holding their breath until they get a positive report on the All-Star outfielder.
NEXT: Guardians Scratch Star Outfielder With 'Body Fatigue'
