Emmanuel Clase’s absence has completely flipped Cleveland’s deadline strategy. What started as a season where the Guardians might add pieces for a playoff push has become a potential sell-off, with Steven Kwan emerging as the most coveted player on the market. Four contending teams are circling, and the clock is ticking toward July 31.
Why Is Steven Kwan Drawing So Much Trade Interest?
Rosenthal reports, “Kwan, 27, is earning $4.175 million this season and under club control through salary arbitration for two years after that. He is drawing ‘a ton’ of interest, according to a club source, with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Diego Padres believed to be among the teams in the mix.”
#Guardians OF Steven Kwan is generating “a ton” of trade interest, per @Ken_Rosenthal
Rosenthal notes the #Dodgers, #BlueJays, #Phillies and #Padres are believed to be among the teams in the mix for Kwan. pic.twitter.com/Lk85Ntb3Ps
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) July 29, 2025
The numbers tell the story of why contenders are lining up. Kwan brings a .285/.350/.411 slash line to the table in 2025, along with 20 doubles, nine home runs, 37 RBI, and 11 stolen bases. Beyond the offensive production, his defensive excellence shines through three Gold Glove awards, while his elite bat-to-ball skills make him a consistent threat at the plate.
The contract situation makes Kwan even more attractive. With two years of club control after 2025, teams aren’t just getting a rental player for a playoff push. They’re acquiring a proven All-Star to anchor their lineup through multiple seasons. Rosenthal notes that this combination makes him “perhaps the best position player available” on the trade market.
How Did Emmanuel Clase’s Situation Change Cleveland’s Strategy?
The Guardians entered this season expecting to compete, but Clase’s non-disciplinary leave due to a betting investigation shifted everything. Rosenthal explains the impact: “The loss of closer Emmanuel Clase to non-disciplinary leave as part of a Major League Baseball investigation into sports betting did not simply deprive the Cleveland Guardians of their top trade chip. It ended any chance of the Guardians becoming a buyer.”
Now sitting at 52-54 and four games out of a Wild Card spot, Cleveland faces a harsh reality. Their recent 18-28 skid exposed the roster’s limitations, while Clase’s absence removed both their closer and their most valuable trade asset. The organization that might have added pieces for a playoff run is now evaluating which players to move.
This strategic shift puts Kwan in an unusual position. While his trade probability remains low according to Rosenthal, the Guardians will listen if offers become overwhelming. They’re seeking major-league-ready hitters or top prospects who can help rebuild their offense around José Ramírez.
What Makes This Trade Deadline Different for Kwan?
The timing creates unique leverage for both sides. Cleveland’s frugal approach means they can afford to wait, especially with Kwan’s affordable $4.175 million salary. However, the thin market for quality bats increases his value right now.
Rosenthal points out the long-term perspective: “While the Guardians’ chances of signing Kwan to an extension might be slim, this will not be their last opportunity to trade him. They can try again this offseason, when they possibly could involve even more teams.”
Still, trading Kwan now offers advantages. The return could provide prospects to strengthen their offense for future seasons. With their postseason roster lacking the depth needed for a deep run, moving Kwan might be the smart play if the right package comes along. The question becomes whether any of the four interested teams can make Cleveland an offer they can’t refuse with just two days left before the deadline.
