Chicago Cubs linked to trade for All-Star Guardians outfielder

The Chicago Cubs are amongst the many teams in MLB who have already begun their offseason planning. That collective now includes that Cleveland Guardians, after they were eliminated by the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALCS.

Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan has heard his name in trade rumors for numerous seasons now. But with free agency looming after the 2027 season, teams around the league believe Cleveland will be more open to trading the outfielder this time around, via Robert Murray of FanSided.

Kwan’s All-Star streak ended at two in 2026, although he still hit .282 with three home runs, 32 RBIs and 10 stolen bases over 151 games. His 5.3 Wins Above Replacement was the second-highest of his career. Furthermore, Kwan’s five years total with the Guardians has resulted in a .282 batting average, 426 runs scored, 39 home runs, 238 RBIs and 83 stolen bases. Throw in four Gold Glove awards and it’s clear to see why the current Guardians star has been a coveted trade target.

The Cubs will have company if they decide to pursue Kwan. But a few factors could sway the outfielder Chicago’s way.

Chicago Cubs could make splash with Steven Kwan trade

Both Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ are set to enter free agency. While any team would make a spot for Kwan if they traded for him, Chicago has one readily available. Furthermore, the Cubs have an ace up their sleeve in Carter Hawkins.

The current general manager spent nearly two decades in Cleveland. He knows ownership well and what they would look for in a trade. Hawkins could serve as the crucial bridge between Kwan and the Cubs, via Murray.

“Another fit for Kwan could be the Chicago Cubs, with both Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ set for free agency,” Murray wrote. “If Happ doesn’t return, Kwan would be an obvious potential replacement. One thing to keep in mind: Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins spent 14 seasons with the Guardians before coming to Chicago.”

“He has deep ties and relationships within Cleveland’s organization, which would only help the communication and negotiations,” he continued. “And he would surely know what Kwan brought behind the scenes in addition to what he provides on the field.”

Between their outfield and pitching staff, the Cubs could see plenty of changes between their 2026 and 2027 roster. Acquiring Kwan at least would show Chicago remains serious in their pursuit of a deep playoff run.

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