Guardians’ Steven Kwan Trade Candidacy Explained

The Cleveland Guardians may consider trading outfielder Steven Kwan this offseason as he enters his final arbitration year ahead of 2027 free agency. According to MLB Trade Rumors, Kwan was named among the top-40 trade candidates in MLB, fitting Cleveland's historical tendency to trade key players approaching free agency. Several clubs, including the Yankees, Padres, Phillies, and Cubs, were cited as potential suitors.

Kwan posted strong numbers down the stretch, leading the majors in batting average and on-base percentage from July onward while earning praise for his defense in both left and center field. However, MLB Trade Rumors also noted Cleveland could retain Kwan by accommodating a projected arbitration salary over $11 million before potentially issuing a qualifying offer.