Jul 15, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; American League outfielder Steven Kwan (38) of the Cleveland Guardians hits an RBI single in the ninth inning during the 2025 MLB All Star Game at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Brett Davis
Earlier this month, On Pattison opined that the Phillies should reach out to the struggling Cleveland Guardians and make them say no on All-Star left fielder Steven Kwan, which they likely would.
As it turns out, that seems to be what's playing out as we approach the July 31 trade deadline.
Jon Heyman of The New York Post reported Wednesday that the Phillies are indeed a team with interest in Kwan, though he noted it will be difficult to get the Guardians to part with the 27-year-old:
Phillies and Padres are among many teams interested in Kwan https://t.co/IwYmE1Hard
That the Phillies like Kwan by itself isn't necessarily newsworthy. All 30 clubs probably would love to have him on their team. Still, it's noteworthy that even though bullpen appears to be the most pressing need for the Phillies, Heyman's reporting seems to indicate they have checked in with the Guardians on one of the game's better outfielders. Not only is that interesting to know now, but it could be something worth filing away for the offseason if Kwan isn't moved before the trade deadline.
Already a three-time Gold Glove Award winner, Kwan has 14 defensive runs saved in 2025, which is pretty remarkable considering that Progressive Field has one of the more difficult left field setups to navigate. Additionally, Kwan is capable of hitting at the top of the order, as he's batting .285 this season. His 36 walks aren't an earth-shattering amount, but he's drawn more bases on balls than strikeouts (35) this season. He's a throwback because while he does have some power, Kwan really is someone focused on putting the ball in play.
Kwan has two remaining arbitration year after 2025, meaning he won't be eligible to become a free agent until the 2027 season concludes. That might mean the Guardians — who are 50-50 and, as Heyman noted, have a relatively easy schedule moving forward — hold onto him until the offseason, even if they don't believe they'll keep him beyond his arbitration years. At the same time, his value in a trade is never going to be higher than it is now, so it makes sense for Cleveland to listen, and in turn, interested teams to call.
Even though a right-handed hitter would probably be the ideal piece for the Phillies to land at the trade deadline to bolster their lineup, if they are able to get someone that hits first or second and plays elite defense, it would be a hell of a pickup.
