The Cleveland Guardians find themselves at a crossroads as the trade deadline looms.
Steven Kwan has delivered another exceptional season, earning his second straight All-Star selection while cementing his status as one of baseball’s premier leadoff hitters.
Yet with the team hovering at .500 with a 51-51 record, questions about the franchise’s direction have intensified.
The uncertainty surrounding Kwan’s future has prompted analyst Chris McNiel to call for immediate action from the front office.
“Make a decision on (Steven) Kwan. Either trade him or extend him. Do something, I wanna see what the future for Steven Kwan looks like here in Cleveland, and I wanna have that set here in the next week. I don’t know if it’s gonna happen, but that’s what I would like to see,” Chris McNeil said on the Big Play podcast.
What do YOU want to see the Guardians do at the MLB trade deadline in one week?
"Make a decision on Steven Kwan. Either trade him or extend him."
–@Reflog_18 & @NickPedone12 debate…
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— BIGPLAY Cleveland Show (@BIGPLAYCLEshow) July 24, 2025
McNiel’s comments reflect growing frustration among fans who want clarity on whether Cleveland plans to compete or rebuild.
The Guardians control Kwan through 2027, making any potential trade unlikely according to recent reports.
However, interest from other clubs remains strong, with both the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres reportedly showing serious interest in the talented outfielder.
Cleveland appears selective about any potential deal, only entertaining what sources describe as “compelling” offers.
The recent surge has complicated matters further. The Guardians have won 11 of their last 14 games, pulling closer in the American League Wild Card race and making a roster teardown seem less appealing.
Extension discussions have reportedly begun between the organization and Kwan’s representatives, though no agreement has been reached.
The front office faces a critical decision in the coming days about whether to lock up Kwan as a franchise cornerstone or explore his trade value while league interest peaks.
NEXT: Former Guardians Star Traded To Mariners
