The Cleveland Guardians played Sunday’s game without their hottest offensive player.
Left fielder Steven Kwan suffered a hamstring injury on Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels.
He apparently suffered the ailment making a defensive play, and left the game shortly after that.
Kwan didn’t play in his customary left field position on Sunday’s victory against LA, as the team is currently waiting for more clarity in the form of an MRI.
“The Guardians are awaiting MRI results for Steven Kwan. If he needs an IL stint, Kyle Manzardo would be an option to be promoted to the majors,” Guardians insider Zack Meisel tweeted.
The Guardians are awaiting MRI results for Steven Kwan. If he needs an IL stint, Kyle Manzardo would be an option to be promoted to the majors.
— Zack Meisel (@ZackMeisel) May 5, 2024
The MRI results should be ready in the upcoming hours, and they will dictate how to proceed with the two-time Gold Glover.
At this point, it’s impossible to rule out a trip to the injured list, depending on if there is a strain and which grade.
Meisel suggests that Cleveland might call up uber-prospect Kyle Manzardo to the major leagues if Kwan is forced to miss a significant period of time.
The two players don’t occupy the same position, but it would make plenty of sense from an offensive standpoint to bring up Manzardo.
In any case, the organization and fans are holding their breath waiting for updates on Kwan.
He is one of the most important players on the team, capable of changing a game defensively and offensively.
As of Sunday, he is hitting an incredible .353/.407/.496 with a cool .903 OPS.
Kwan has been one of the top leadoff men in baseball, and his absence will be painful if it is confirmed he needs to go to the injured list.
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