In some sense, moving on from Steven Kwan would be a questionable decision for the Cleveland Guardians. Not only is Kwan a two-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove Award winner, and much more, but he doesn't hit free agency until 2028.
There isn't a Guardians fan out there who wouldn't suggest that this team has played below-average baseball for much of the season, but over their past 10 games, they've also proven why many had big hopes for them entering the year.
Kwan has been a significant contributor to the Guardians' success over the past few years and has been decent once again. While his wrist injury certainly isn't helping, he's still hitting .285 with a 106 OPS+. Throughout his four-year career, he owns a 113 OPS+.
MORE: MLB insider reveals Guardians' trade demands for Steven Kwan
Needless to say, if Kwan became available, there would be many teams around the league interested in trading for him.
When searching for which team could be a landing spot, The Athletic recently proposed the idea of the Philadelphia Phillies trading for him.
“A Guardians team in desperate need of offensive production, especially from the outfield, dealing Kwan would qualify as a significant surprise. However, there have been enough conversations around Kwan — and the market is so lacking of offensive production — that perhaps Cleveland gets a deal it can’t turn down for the All-Star.
“Kwan’s contact skills make him unique in the sport; he almost never swings and misses, let alone strikes out. However, his overall offense has taken a step back from last season, thanks in part to a wrist injury he's been nursing since May,” they wrote.
The Phillies, similar to some other teams that could be interested in Kwan, have one of the better farm systems in baseball.
If they could walk out with a player of his caliber, they should be pleased.
However, from the Guardians’ perspective, they have to worry about getting the best package in return.
If the Phillies have that, then take the deal.
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