Padres must trade for Guardians’ Steven Kwan

The Padres possess several quality prospects and pieces that could construct a compelling offer to the Guardians. While Kwan recently agreed to a one-year, $4.175 million arbitration deal through 2026, the Guardians should listen to serious offers from contending teams. San Diego’s prospect pool, despite being decimated by recent deadline moves, still contains intriguing young talent that could intrigue Cleveland. The Padres also have the financial flexibility and organizational drive to pull off this type of blockbuster swap. Adding Kwan would immediately upgrade the team’s defense and provide the top-of-the-order production that has eluded the organization during recent seasons.

The Perfect Trade Package for Steven Kwan

The following represents a viable offer that the Padres should present to the Guardians for Steven Kwan:

Padres Receive:

OF Steven Kwan

Guardians Receive:

• C Ethan Salas
• LHP Kruz Schoolcraft
• RHP Humberto Cruz
• SS Jorge Quintana

This package offers the Guardians a loaded return centered on premium young pitching talent, a high-ceiling catcher prospect, and a promising young shortstop. Schoolcraft, a 6-foot-8 left-hander with a high-90s fastball and advanced command, could develop into a legitimate ace-caliber starter. Cruz and Mayfield provide additional depth, while Salas and Quintana address position player needs. The cash consideration helps sweeten the deal while demonstrating San Diego’s commitment to winning now.

For the Padres, acquiring Kwan would transform their championship window. With two years of control remaining on his arbitration deal, the team could lock him into a long-term extension and keep him in a brown and gold uniform for years to come. The addition of a four-time Gold Glove winner in left field would provide the defensive stability and offensive consistency needed to compete for a World Series title. The time for the Padres to act is now.