Dodgers Trade Rumors: Steven Kwan and Emmanuel Clase Deal Could Transform LA’s Championship Pursuit

The Los Angeles Dodgers are positioning themselves as aggressive buyers as the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, with the 2025 Trade Deadline drawing closer. Fresh speculation has emerged linking the World Series contenders to a blockbuster package deal involving two Cleveland Guardians All-Stars: outfielder Steven Kwan and closer Emmanuel Clase.

Trade Speculation Intensifies Around Guardians’ Core Players

Industry insiders have begun discussing the possibility of a significant trade between Los Angeles and Cleveland, with the Dodgers hunting for bullpen reinforcements, infield stability, and outfield upgrades to stay in World Series contention. The potential acquisition of both Kwan and Clase would address multiple organizational needs simultaneously.

Recent reports suggest that such a trade would require a substantial prospect package from the Dodgers, potentially including multiple starting pitching prospects and position players. The complexity of acquiring two All-Star caliber players under team control through 2027 (Kwan) and 2028 (Clase) would make this one of the most significant deadline deals in recent memory.

The Guardians’ current fourth-place position in the American League Central with a 46-49 record has intensified speculation about potential moves. However, one insider believes it’s ‘doubtful’ the Guardians trade star player Steven Kwan, suggesting Cleveland may be reluctant to part with their franchise cornerstones.

Steven Kwan: The Contact King’s Remarkable Value

Steven Kwan has established himself as one of baseball’s most unique talents, combining elite contact skills with Gold Glove defense. The 27-year-old outfielder is currently slashing .285/.345/.396 with six home runs, 20 doubles, and 11 stolen bases through the first half of 2025.

What makes Kwan particularly valuable is his exceptional plate discipline. Kwan’s whiff rate of 8.3 percent is in the 100th percentile, and his strikeout rate of 8.5 percent is in the 98th percentile, making him virtually impossible to strike out. This skillset would be invaluable for a Dodgers lineup that has occasionally struggled with strikeouts in crucial moments.

The two-time All-Star has demonstrated remarkable consistency since his rookie campaign, when he led all American League rookies in hits and runs while finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting. His ability to get on base at a high rate while providing elite defense in left field makes him an ideal fit for the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.

Contract-wise, Kwan represents exceptional value. He’s under team control through 2027 and won’t become a free agent until 2028, providing multiple years of cost-controlled production. This long-term security makes him an attractive target for the Dodgers’ sustained championship window.

Emmanuel Clase: Bullpen Dominance Despite Recent Struggles

Emmanuel Clase has been one of baseball’s premier closers over the past three seasons, earning All-Star selections from 2022-2024. While he didn’t make the 2025 All-Star team, the 27-year-old right-hander has still posted respectable numbers with a 2.91 ERA and 20 saves this season.

Clase has made three consecutive All-Star appearances and logged a minuscule 0.61 ERA last year, owning a lifetime 1.79 ERA. His recent performance may represent a temporary adjustment rather than a permanent decline, making him an intriguing buy-low candidate for the Dodgers.

The Dominican closer’s arsenal features a devastating cutter that has consistently ranked among the most effective pitches in baseball. His ability to generate ground balls and weak contact would complement the Dodgers’ existing bullpen structure perfectly.

From a contractual standpoint, Clase offers significant value with club options for 2027 and 2028. This team-friendly deal structure gives the Guardians less urgency to move him, but it also makes him more attractive to acquiring teams like the Dodgers.

Trade Package Implications and Dodgers’ Prospect Capital

Any potential deal involving both Kwan and Clase would require the Dodgers to part with significant prospect capital. The organization’s farm system has been depleted somewhat by recent trades, but they still possess enough talent to construct a competitive package.

Starting pitching prospects would likely headline any offer, given Cleveland’s organizational philosophy of developing and trading pitchers. The Guardians have historically valued controllable young arms, making this a natural fit for negotiations.

The Dodgers’ ability to absorb both players’ salaries while maintaining payroll flexibility would be crucial. Both Kwan and Clase represent excellent value contracts, making the financial aspects more manageable than typical All-Star acquisitions.

Championship Window Considerations

For Los Angeles, acquiring both players would represent a significant commitment to their current championship window. The Dodgers have consistently been aggressive at trade deadlines, and this move would continue that tradition while addressing multiple roster needs.

The combination of Kwan’s on-base skills and Clase’s closing ability could be the difference-maker in October. Playoff baseball often comes down to getting key hits and shutting down opponents in crucial moments – areas where both players excel.

Cleveland’s decision-making process will likely hinge on their assessment of the current roster’s championship potential. With the team struggling to reach .500, trading away core players might represent the prudent long-term approach.

Market Dynamics and Deadline Pressure

As teams move past the All-Star break and zero in on the July 31 Trade Deadline, all eyes are on the bubble teams that need to decide whether to buy or sell. The Guardians find themselves in this exact position, making difficult decisions about their roster construction.

The broader trade market will influence any potential deal. If other teams begin aggressively pursuing similar players, it could drive up the asking price for both Kwan and Clase. Conversely, if the market remains quiet, the Dodgers might find opportunities to negotiate more favorable terms.

Insights

Will the Guardians actually trade Steven Kwan?

Despite trade speculation, most insiders believe Cleveland will be reluctant to move Kwan given his status as a fan favorite and team leader. His combination of elite contact skills and defensive ability makes him nearly irreplaceable.

How much would this trade cost the Dodgers in prospects?

A package deal for both players would likely require 4-5 prospects, including at least two top-100 talents. The Dodgers would need to part with significant organizational depth.

Does Emmanuel Clase’s recent struggles make him less valuable?

His 2.91 ERA represents a step back from previous dominance, but his track record suggests this is temporary. Teams often target elite closers during perceived down years.

What would this mean for the Dodgers’ championship odds?

Adding both players would address critical needs and likely improve their World Series chances significantly. The combination of improved offense and bullpen depth could be decisive.

Are there other teams involved in these discussions?

While the Dodgers have been specifically mentioned, other contenders are likely monitoring both players. Competition could drive up acquisition costs.

When would a trade need to happen?

With the July 31 deadline approaching rapidly, any serious negotiations would need to intensify soon. Complex multi-player deals typically require weeks of discussion and medical reviews.

The potential trade between the Dodgers and Guardians represents one of the most intriguing storylines as the deadline approaches. Whether Cleveland ultimately decides to move their cornerstone players remains the central question, but the impact on both organizations would be profound regardless of the outcome.