Steven Kwan, the dynamic outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians, has become a fan favorite due to his discipline at the plate, outstanding defense, and humble demeanor. From his early days in Oregon to making a splash in Major League Baseball, Kwan’s journey is a blend of talent, perseverance, and character. In this detailed profile, we delve into Steven Kwan’s trade rumors, personal life including his wife, his contract details, ethnicity, and current net worth.
Early Life and Background
Born on September 5, 1997, in Los Gatos, California, Steven Kwan grew up in a multicultural household and quickly fell in love with baseball. He played high school ball at Washington High School in Fremont, before starring at Oregon State University, where he helped the Beavers capture the 2018 College World Series title.
His high contact rate, elite discipline, and smart baserunning made him a sleeper pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, where he was selected by the Cleveland Guardians (then Indians) in the 5th round.
Steven Kwan Trade Rumors: Is He on the Move?
As of the 2025 MLB season, there has been speculation regarding a potential Steven Kwan trade, especially as the Guardians evaluate their long-term outfield depth and pitching needs.
Why Kwan is Valuable on the Trade Market
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Elite Contact Hitter: Kwan has consistently posted low strikeout rates (under 10%) and has been among league leaders in contact percentage.
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Gold Glove Defense: His range and reliability in left field have made him a defensive cornerstone.
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Team-Friendly Contract: Still under club control, Kwan provides surplus value for any team.
Trade Destinations in Rumors (2025)
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San Francisco Giants: Looking to add a table-setter in a lefty-heavy lineup.
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New York Yankees: In search of a consistent left-field option who gets on base.
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Los Angeles Dodgers: Always scouting for disciplined bats to balance power-heavy lineups.
However, the Guardians’ front office has not publicly signaled any active plans to move Kwan. Unless overwhelmed by a significant offer, it’s likely he remains a key part of Cleveland’s rebuild around contact and defense.
Steven Kwan’s Wife: Who is He Married To?
Steven Kwan keeps a low profile off the field, but he recently made headlines by marrying his long-time girlfriend, Kimberly Le, in a private ceremony in 2024.
Who is Kimberly Le?
Kimberly Le is a graduate of the University of California, Davis, with a background in public health and social work. She is known for being supportive of Steven’s career, often spotted at games and community events.
The couple shares a mutual interest in mental health advocacy, often partnering with local initiatives and charities in Cleveland to promote youth wellness.
Their relationship, though largely private, showcases the stability and grounded life Kwan maintains outside baseball.
Steven Kwan Contract Details
Kwan made his MLB debut in 2022 and remains under team control through 2027. His pre-arbitration and arbitration-eligible years provide cost certainty to the Guardians.
Current Contract Breakdown (as of 2025)
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2025 Salary: $750,000 (pre-arbitration)
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Arbitration Years: 2026–2028 (projected escalating salaries based on performance)
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Free Agency Eligible: 2029 (Age 31 season)
While some teams have explored contract extensions early in players’ careers, the Guardians have yet to reach a long-term deal with Kwan. However, given his consistency and clubhouse leadership, an extension remains a possibility.
Why a Contract Extension Makes Sense
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Locks in Kwan’s prime years
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Rewards consistency and defensive excellence
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Sets a tone for the franchise’s identity around hustle and contact hitting
Ethnicity: What is Steven Kwan’s Cultural Background?
Steven Kwan is Asian-American, and his ethnicity is Chinese and Japanese.
Kwan has proudly spoken about his heritage, emphasizing how important it is to represent Asian-Americans in a sport where few have historically had prominent roles.
Kwan on Representation in MLB
“It’s a great responsibility. I didn’t see many people who looked like me in the big leagues growing up. If I can be that for someone else, I’m honored.”
— Steven Kwan interview with The Undefeated, 2023
He’s become a role model for aspiring Asian-American athletes and regularly participates in diversity initiatives within MLB.
Steven Kwan Net Worth (2025)
Though early in his MLB career, Kwan has already built an impressive financial portfolio through salary, endorsements, and investments.
Estimated Net Worth: $2.5 Million (2025)
Income Sources
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MLB Salary: Approx. $750,000 in 2025
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Endorsements: Partnerships with:
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Nike
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Panini America
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Local Cleveland brands
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Investments: Reportedly invested in a sports nutrition startup and real estate in Oregon.
As Kwan moves closer to arbitration and potentially lands a long-term deal, his net worth is expected to climb rapidly over the next 3–5 years.
Steven Kwan Career Stats (as of July 2025)
| Year | Games | AVG | OBP | SLG | SB | HR | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 147 | .298 | .373 | .400 | 19 | 6 | 4.4 |
| 2023 | 153 | .274 | .362 | .383 | 21 | 5 | 3.8 |
| 2024 | 149 | .281 | .360 | .398 | 17 | 7 | 3.9 |
| 2025 | 88* | .292 | .370 | .409 | 10 | 4 | 2.1 |
*2025 stats as of All-Star break
His consistent bat-to-ball skills, coupled with elite defense, have solidified his role as a leadoff hitter and spark plug.
Steven Kwan’s Playing Style: Old-School in a Modern Game
Steven Kwan is often referred to as a “throwback” player.
Strengths
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Disciplined eye (top 1% in swing-and-miss rate)
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Excellent range in the outfield
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Smart baserunning
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High baseball IQ
Weaknesses
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Below-average power output
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Can be neutralized by high-velocity fastballs
However, his consistency and rare ability to make contact on nearly any pitch make him a statistical outlier in today’s swing-for-the-fences era.
Personal Life & Interests
Off the field, Steven Kwan is known for his humility, generosity, and intellect. His hobbies include:
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Reading philosophy
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Volunteering with youth programs
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Yoga and mindfulness
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Playing the ukulele
He’s also deeply involved with mental health awareness, frequently advocating for better support systems in both collegiate and professional sports.
Social Media Presence
While Kwan maintains a low profile, he does occasionally share on social platforms:
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Instagram: @stevenkwan – Insight into training, travel, and family
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Twitter/X: @StevenKwan – Mostly baseball commentary and motivational quotes
He’s widely respected by fans for being genuine and thoughtful, never chasing the spotlight.
Conclusion
Steven Kwan’s story is one of quiet excellence. In an MLB landscape filled with towering home run hitters, Kwan’s style is refreshingly unique. His strong values, disciplined play, and cultural pride make him not just a key player for the Guardians, but an ambassador for the sport.
Whether he remains in Cleveland or is part of a major trade, his impact on and off the field is undeniable. As his career continues to evolve, Steven Kwan stands as one of baseball’s most well-rounded and respected talents.
FAQs
Is Steven Kwan getting traded in 2025?
As of now, no official trade has occurred, but rumors are circulating. The Guardians may consider offers if the return is significant.
Who is Steven Kwan’s wife?
Steven Kwan is married to Kimberly Le, a public health advocate.
What is Steven Kwan’s ethnicity?
Kwan is of Chinese and Japanese descent.
How much is Steven Kwan worth?
His estimated net worth is around $2.5 million as of 2025.
What team does Steven Kwan play for?
He plays for the Cleveland Guardians in MLB.