San Diego Padres linked to contact-hitting Gold Glove outfielder

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, it seems almost overnight that Cleveland Guardians left-fielder Steven Kwan has been linked to the Padres. Say no more. Kwan's veteran presence would be openly welcomed by other Friars veterans, while his mantra of out-hustling opponents would surely lift an already talented but somewhat idle club.

It's clear that something has to change for the Friars offensively. After a strong offensive showing against the Nationals, the Padres dropped two out of three against the Miami Marlins due to low run output, sliding to 4.5 games back in the division.

Padres could attempt trade with Guardians All-Star Steven Kwan

On their list of the MLB's top 50 trade candidates, Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan of ESPN have Kwan as the Number 2 overall trade candidate, and deservedly so. The bad news? They project only a 20% chance of Kwan being dealt. Still, multiple reports state the Guardians are listening to offers which means the right package will crack the code.

Kwan has two years left on his contract which would not only provide immediate help but strengthen the Padres' outfield for a couple more seasons. Kwan is the ultimate ball player, consistently throwing out opposing runners who try to squeeze doubles against the left-field Gold Glover.

Coupled with a .285 average, Kwan already has 11 stolen bases this season. Although the Padres' Gavin Sheets has more home runs than Kwan, the Guardians' outfielder boasts 106 hits, ensuring he would reach the bases more often.

Kwan has earned a Gold Glove in all three years he's been a pro and this is a key interest for the Friars. Just yesterday, the A's dropped a game simply due to left-field/shortstop communication issues. A flyball dropped between them while the go-ahead run was able to cross home plate. This is why the Friars need a player like Kwan, with his sound techniques, errors like this would never happen.

Exactly what the Cleveland Guardians are looking for in return is anyone's guess, but they wouldn't be fielding offers if they were set on Kwan. With many red hot prospects, even those the Padres might not want to part with, the addition of Kwan could elevate their game one more notch, and that's worth it's weight in gold.