Cleveland Guardians Face Tough Decision on Extending Star Outfielder Steven Kwan

Kwan's contract situation looms large as Guardians prepare for 2026 season

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The Cleveland Guardians are facing a critical decision on whether to extend the contract of star outfielder Steven Kwan, who has been a key part of the team's success over the past few seasons. Kwan, a two-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner, is entering the final year of his current deal, and the Guardians must decide if they want to lock him up long-term or potentially trade him to get value in return.

Why it matters

Kwan's continued presence in Cleveland is crucial for the Guardians, who have built a talented young core around him. Failing to extend Kwan could signal a shift in the team's long-term plans and potentially lead to the loss of one of the league's best all-around players. The decision will have major implications for the Guardians' competitiveness in the coming years.

The details

Kwan, 28, is coming off a strong 2025 season in which he slashed .272/.330/.374 with 29 doubles, 11 home runs, and a career-high 56 RBIs. He also continued to excel defensively, posting a 97.6% fielding percentage with 308 putouts and 13 assists. The Guardians have reportedly been in contract extension discussions with Kwan for over a year, but no deal has been reached. The team's decision to exclude Kwan from promotional materials has fueled speculation that a trade or departure could be on the horizon.

  • The Guardians' first game of the 2026 season is set for Saturday, February 21 at 3:05 p.m. EST against the Cincinnati Reds.
  • Kwan and the Guardians avoided arbitration earlier this offseason, agreeing to a one-year, $7.725 million contract.

The players

Steven Kwan

A 28-year-old outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians, Kwan is a two-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner who has been a key part of the team's success in recent years.

Andre Knott

The Guardians' sideline reporter, who has provided insight into the team's contract negotiations with Kwan.

Chase DeLauter

A promising Guardians prospect who could potentially replace Kwan in the outfield.

George Valera

Another Guardians prospect who has been platooned in the outfield, potentially putting him in competition with Kwan for playing time.

Petey Halpin

A Guardians prospect who has also seen time in the outfield, adding to the team's depth at the position.

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What they’re saying

“Read between the lines... I think that's being careful of something happening.”

— Andre Knott, Guardians sideline reporter (SI.com)

“I don't think they want to get rid of him, but also, you know, the Guards are one team that's not gonna overpay for him either.”

— Andre Knott, Guardians sideline reporter (SI.com)

What’s next

The Guardians will have to decide whether to trade Kwan, sign him to a long-term extension, or let him walk as a free agent after the 2027 season. The team's decision will have major implications for their competitiveness in the coming years.

The takeaway

The Guardians' handling of Kwan's contract situation will be a crucial test of the team's long-term vision and commitment to building a sustainable contender. Failing to extend Kwan would be a major mistake, as he is one of the league's most well-rounded players and a key part of the team's core. The Guardians must find a way to keep Kwan in Cleveland for the foreseeable future.