Guardians Consider Trading Steven Kwan Before 2027 Free Agency

The Cleveland Guardians could reshape the MLB outfield market this winter by listening to trade offers for Steven Kwan, with the 29-year-old left fielder under team control through the 2027 season and eligible for free agency afterward.

Kwan entered the offseason after playing 151 games in 2026, hitting .282 with a .382 on-base percentage, a .349 slugging percentage, three home runs, 32 RBIs and 5.3 WAR, according to the source reports. He is a two-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove Award winner.

FanSided's Robert Murray reported that Cleveland may consider offers because Kwan's contract situation creates an offseason decision point. The Cubs and Padres were among teams mentioned as possible fits because of their outfield needs.

"entirely possible" said Robert Murray, FanSided MLB insider.

Murray previously reported that Kwan could become available despite Cleveland's reliance on his contact skills and defense. The outfielder has been discussed as a possible trade candidate in previous seasons as well.

"But it’s entirely possible that the Guardians will listen on Steven Kwan in the winter with the star outfielder scheduled for free agency after the 2027 season," said Robert Murray, FanSided MLB insider.

The Guardians would be entering negotiations with a player who has one season remaining before free agency. Kwan's projected arbitration salary was reported at $11.3 million, up from $7.73 million in 2026.

"But it's entirely possible that the Guardians will listen on Steven Kwan this winter with the star outfielder scheduled for free agency after the 2027 season. The Padres have shown past interest in Kwan, and Preller loves star players," said Robert Murray, FanSided MLB insider.

The Padres were linked to Kwan because they need an established left fielder after Ramon Laureano suffered a season-ending injury and reached free agency. San Diego previously showed interest in acquiring him.

The Cubs were also identified as a potential destination because Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki were approaching free agency, while Chicago could prefer shorter-term outfield solutions. A proposed trade package involving prospects was discussed by Bleacher Report analyst Kerry Miller, according to the reports.

Kwan's offensive profile differs from many power-focused outfielders because of his contact ability and plate discipline. His career strikeout rate was reported at 9.5%, while his 2026 season included a 114 wRC+ and elite defensive value.

"It would've been a lot cleaner if they didn't need him for 18 pitches after Cade Smith threw 31," said Ken Rosenthal, MLB reporter.

Rosenthal's comment came during discussion of the Guardians' playoff pitching decisions in their ALDS matchup. Cleveland's Game 5 was scheduled against the Chicago White Sox with a place in the American League Championship Series at stake.