Guardians Manager Highlights All-Star Kwan’s 2025 Potential Amid Spring Training

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Guardians manager Stephen Vogt expressed confidence in All-Star left fielder Steven Kwan‘s potential for winning the American League batting title in 2025 during a press conference ahead of Monday’s split-squad games against the Royals and Cubs.

Vogt reflected on Kwan’s performance last season, noting that two injuries prevented him from claiming a batting crown. However, he highlighted Kwan’s significant improvement at the plate in 2024. “He learned a lot from last year as far as his approach and sticking with it,” Vogt said. “He’s one of the best complete hitters in the big leagues, and he showed signs of power last year as well.”

Kwan finished the season with a .292 batting average, ranking eighth in the American League after battling injuries. He achieved a remarkable .398 batting average with 70 hits in 176 at-bats through mid-June, a feat that placed him alongside Cleveland greats Tris Speaker and Joe Jackson as the only players in franchise history to maintain such a high average over the first 69 games.

Despite being sidelined for 23 games in May with a strained hamstring and 11 games in September due to a lower back injury, Kwan’s strong start highlighted his potential. Vogt acknowledged that Kwan’s offseason focus on soft tissue work and developing body awareness is crucial for his success this coming season. “I’m focused more on getting on the ground, getting in cleats earlier, just setting that foundation to be stronger,” Kwan explained.

The upcoming season presents new challenges for Kwan, especially with the departure of hitting coach Chris Valaika, who joined Terry Francona‘s staff in Cincinnati. However, Kwan has previously collaborated with new hitting coach Grant Fink, who he credited for contributing to a power surge during spring training in 2021. “The way he talks and demonstrates things was very easy to digest for me,” Kwan said, indicating optimism for the future.

In addition to this evaluation of Kwan, the Guardians’ roster for the upcoming MLB Spring Breakout game against the Seattle Mariners will feature top prospect Travis Bazzana, alongside fellow highly-ranked players Jaison Chourio, Angel Genao, and Ralphy Velazquez. The game will occur on March 14 and showcase Cleveland’s promising young talent.

As the Guardians prepare for a busy season ahead, Vogt’s emphasis on Kwan’s development and the team’s depth reflects a strong commitment to improving their lineup. Cleveland fans will eagerly watch as the team competes both in regular games and showcases for their prospects.