Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Steven Kwan’s rising trade buzz is centered on the approaching 2025 MLB trade deadline on July 31.
- Interest from teams like the Dodgers, Phillies, Padres, and Mets is driven by Kwan’s elite contact and defensive skills.
- Cleveland’s recent challenges, including their below .500 record and Emmanuel Clase’s suspension, influence potential trades.
- The Guardians value Kwan highly, but a trade could help their rebuilding efforts by acquiring prospects.
- This trade saga remains active, with negotiations potentially extending into the off-season or 2026.
Table of Contents
Steven Kwan’s Rising Trade Buzz Ahead of the 2025 MLB Deadline
Why the Sudden Interest in Steven Kwan?
The Trade Market and Potential Destinations
What Could This Mean for Fans and the Team?
Steven Kwan’s Rising Trade Buzz Ahead of the 2025 MLB Deadline
The Cleveland Guardians’ star outfielder Steven Kwan has become one of the most talked-about players as the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31. Once considered a low-likelihood trade candidate, Kwan’s status has shifted amid recent team upheavals and interest from several big-market teams, signaling a pivotal moment in his career and the Guardians’ strategy going forward.
Why the Sudden Interest in Steven Kwan?
Kwan, a two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner at just 27, has been a bright spot for Cleveland. He boasts a .287 batting average with solid power and elite contact hitting skills — ranking in the 95th percentile of qualified hitters since his MLB debut in 2022. Defensively, he’s an elite outfielder, making him a rare and valuable asset under team control through 2027.
However, Cleveland’s recent challenges, including their drop below a .500 winning percentage and the suspension of All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase amid a gambling investigation, have forced the front office to rethink its roster composition and playoff chances.[1][2][4]
The Trade Market and Potential Destinations
MLB insiders report that trade talks are becoming *serious*, with teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and New York Mets reportedly exploring deals involving Kwan. The Guardians are said to have set a high asking price to reflect Kwan’s value, and any trade would bring back a sizable package of prospects or young talent.[2][3]
- Guardians’ stance: Willing to trade if the price is met but also open to negotiating extensions to keep him.
- Potential impact: Trading Kwan would reduce their offensive firepower but help replenish their farm system amid a rebuilding phase.
What Could This Mean for Fans and the Team?
Cleveland’s fans face a tough decision as the deadline nears. Keeping Kwan could maintain competitiveness and star power, but trading him could accelerate rebuilding by acquiring multiple promising players. For Kwan, a move to a contender like the Dodgers or Mets could boost his championship chances.
If no trade happens now, talks are expected to continue into the offseason or the 2026 trade deadline, keeping this story alive beyond summer 2025.[1]
Final Thoughts
Steven Kwan’s evolving trade story encapsulates a dynamic period for the Guardians and highlights the complexities teams face balancing performance, player value, and long-term goals. Whether Cleveland holds onto its All-Star or cashes in on his value, this situation is a must-watch for MLB fans tracking the pulse of the 2025 season.
Stay tuned for updates as the July 31 deadline approaches — this trade saga is far from over.
FAQ
Will Cleveland keep Steven Kwan or trade him before the deadline?
It remains uncertain. Cleveland is willing to trade Kwan if their asking price is met, but they also consider extensions. The final decision depends on negotiations and team strategy as the deadline approaches.
Which teams are interested in acquiring Kwan?
Teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, San Diego Padres, and New York Mets are exploring deals involving Kwan, reflecting his high value as a contact and defensive specialist.
What does trading Kwan mean for Cleveland’s future?
Trading Kwan could help Cleveland rebuild by acquiring prospects or young talent, but it might reduce their current offensive firepower. The decision balances short-term performance and long-term strategy.
Sources
- Guardians Get Huge Steven Kwan Trade Update From MLB Insider
- Cleveland Guardians’ Steven Kwan Trade Talks Receive Jarring Update
- Ranking Guardians’ Steven Kwan’s Landing Spots with Trade Packages Amid Latest Rumors
- Steven Kwan Drawing Interest Before 2025 Trade Deadline
- Guardians’ Steven Kwan Reportedly Linked to Dodgers and Mets Amid MLB Trade Rumors
