Guardians' Steven Kwan to Get Look in Center Field

Manager Stephen Vogt assessing best outfield combination during spring training

Feb. 27, 2026 at 10:55pm

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Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan, a four-time Gold Glove winner in left field, will get some playing time in center field during spring training as manager Stephen Vogt evaluates the team's best outfield alignment. Rookie Chase DeLauter and George Valera are also expected to see time in the outfield during Cactus League games.

Why it matters

The Guardians are looking to optimize their defensive alignment while also maximizing their offensive potential for the upcoming season. Kwan's versatility to play multiple outfield positions could give the team more flexibility in their lineup construction.

The details

Kwan has primarily played left field in his five seasons in the majors, but has expressed interest in getting some reps in center field. He was primarily a center fielder in the Guardians' minor-league system. Rookie Chase DeLauter, who made his MLB debut in last season's AL Wild Card series, could also see time in center and right field. George Valera is expected to play left field during spring training games.

  • Kwan will get some time in center field during spring training over the next couple weeks.
  • DeLauter made his MLB debut in the 2022 AL Wild Card series against the Detroit Tigers.

The players

Steven Kwan

A four-time Gold Glove winning outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians, primarily playing left field.

Stephen Vogt

The manager of the Cleveland Guardians, assessing the team's best outfield alignment for the upcoming season.

Chase DeLauter

A rookie outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians who made his MLB debut in the 2022 AL Wild Card series.

George Valera

An outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians expected to play left field during spring training games.

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What they’re saying

“You're going to see guys moving all over the field during spring, like we've done previous years. We're trying to optimize for both our best defensive team, coupled with maximizing our potential for offense is what we're looking for on any given day.”

— Stephen Vogt, Manager, Cleveland Guardians

What’s next

It could be a couple weeks before Vogt tries Kwan in center field during spring training games.

The takeaway

The Guardians are exploring ways to maximize their defensive alignment and offensive potential, with veteran outfielder Steven Kwan potentially seeing time in center field to give the team more flexibility in their lineup construction.