The Reds could look to pursue All-Star outfielder Steven Kwan in a trade.
The Cincinnati Reds are looking for ways to improve this offseason. Cincinnati has yet to make any especially notable additions. Is there an argument to be made for the Reds making a trade with their neighbors in Ohio, however?
Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan has been mentioned as a potential trade candidate. While Kwan has primarily been linked to big market teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, one has to wonder if Cincinnati would consider reaching out to the Guardians about a deal.
Of course, Cleveland’s primary motivation to avoid losing Kwan would be to get something back in return – as opposed to losing him in free agency. The Guardians have yet to agree to a contract extension with Kwan, so a trade could come to fruition in the future.
The Reds are a similar market to Cleveland. They wouldn’t want to acquire Kwan right now unless they felt they could extend him. Perhaps Cincinnati could consider making him their left fielder of the future. If the Reds could commit to that plan, then trading for him would make sense.
Reds’ Current Outfield Situation
Gavin Lux, TJ Friedl, Noelvi Marte and Will Benson are among the current outfield options for the Reds. Kwan would take over left field in the event a trade does occur, and the Reds could adjust as necessary.
Kwan is a two-time All-Star and four-time Gold Glove winner. He rarely strikes out, gets on base at a consistent rate, and often puts the ball in play. Kwan doesn’t offer too much power, but his ability to set the tone for a lineup is important.
Kwan is under team control through the 2027 season. At 28 years old, the Guardians would receive plenty of value in a trade if they moved the outfielder now. Most teams around the league would love to acquire a quality offensive presence who offers elite defensive ability.
The Reds would likely have to surrender some of their top prospects. Cleveland may also ask for a big league player or two, although the Guardians’ focus would probably be on younger players with high ceilings.
At the end of the day, the Reds have not been linked to Kwan in trade rumors. The chances of a deal such as this happening are slim. Nevertheless, it is a trade the Reds should consider if they are serious about building a contender around Elly De La Cruz.