Guardians' Steven Kwan Breaks Down Gold Glove Mentality

The Cleveland outfielder explains why defense should never slump.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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After winning his fourth-straight Gold Glove, Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan broke down his defensive mindset with MLB Network's Jake Peavy. Kwan emphasized that defense should never slump, as it can save games even on a tough day at the plate. He also stressed the importance of separating one's at-bats from the outfield performance, noting that players can't let a poor offensive game affect their focus in the field.

Why it matters

Kwan's comments provide insight into the mentality of an elite defensive player in Major League Baseball. As a four-time Gold Glove winner, his perspective on the importance of defense and maintaining focus is valuable for young players looking to improve their all-around game.

The details

Kwan, a fifth-round pick out of Oregon State in 2018, made an immediate impact as a rookie for the Guardians in 2022, earning Rookie of the Year consideration before winning his first of four-straight Gold Glove awards. Though he may not be a household name, Kwan's lunchpail attitude and defensive prowess have made him a key contributor for the Guardians.

  • Kwan won his fourth-straight Gold Glove award in 2026.

The players

Steven Kwan

A Cleveland Guardians outfielder who has won four-straight Gold Glove awards.

Jake Peavy

An MLB Network analyst who interviewed Kwan about his Gold Glove mentality.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, for sure. I mean, defense should never slump, and that's the cool thing, is you can have a really tough day at the plate, but you can save the game, and in that last inning, as long as you're locked in.”

— Steven Kwan (MLB Network)

“And I mean on the flip side too, if you bring your at-bats with you in the outfield and you're moping, you're feeling sorry for yourself, and then that ball comes, like you could lose the game for your team too. So, I mean, you have to be able to separate those kinds of two things and like you said, play both sides of the ball.”

— Steven Kwan (MLB Network)

The takeaway

Kwan's comments highlight the importance of maintaining a strong defensive mindset in baseball, even on days when the offense is struggling. His emphasis on separating one's performance at the plate from the effort in the field is a valuable lesson for players at all levels of the game.