With MLB’s GM meetings this week in Las Vegas, the Hot Stove is truly starting to heat up. The Cleveland Guardians haven’t been at the center of rumors and reports, but one familiar name has appeared in trade speculation over the last week: Steven Kwan.

Kwan was one of the most intriguing names being watched ahead of the trade deadline in July, and he’s once again reportedly drawing interest from the back-to-back World Series winner, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Guardians have a decision to make this offseason: Should they trade Kwan this winter, sign him to a contract extension, or wait until next season to make a decision?

Many fans, understandably, want the Guardians to make Kwan a staple of the future. However, there still is a case to be made that the Guardians should deal with Kwan before Opening Day.

Steven Kwan’s Value May Never Be Higher

Kwan has been named an All-Star in consecutive seasons and has one four Gold Glove Awards. There’s not much more you can ask for from a player through their first four season in the big leagues. 

That said, right now may be the peak of Kwan’s trade value.

He has two more seasons of team control, and if the Guardians wait any longer, they may not be able to get as much back for him in a potential trade. Teams obviously would want to add someone of Kwan’s skillset for two full seasons, rather than one. Moving Kwan this offseason could be the difference between getting a prospect in an organization’s top-10 or one of their top 50.

For a Guardians organization that values young, controllable talent, that’s a reality the front office can’t ignore.

Are Kwan’s Declining Offensive Numbers A Sign?

Kwan is still one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball and one of the most difficult outs in the game. He doesn’t strike out, and he generates a ton of contact. However, Kwan’s declining offensive numbers from a year ago can’t be ignored. 

Last season, Kwan registered a slash line of .272/.330/.374,

The biggest dip came after the All-Star Break, when Kwan had a .655 OPS during the final 64 games of the season. This wasn’t the first time Kwan had a second-half slump. The left-handed hitter had a .618 OPS after the Midsummer Classic during the 2024 season.

Yes, Kwan was dealing with injuries during the second half of both seasons, but the drop-off during the final stretch still can’t be ignored when considering what type of player Kwan will be as his career continues. 

Considering Kwan is still under team control and has seen a slight dip in some of his numbers, now might be the best time for Cleveland to sell high, before his value begins to drop.