Guardians top Orioles 6-3 on July 23, 2025, as José Ramírez stays hot. With the team surging, will Cleveland trade stars like Clase and Kwan at the deadline?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
What a difference a week makes. Just as the Cleveland Guardians are hitting their stride, winning four of five since the All-Star break, the trade deadline looms, creating a fascinating dilemma. The team's bats stayed hot in a 6-3 victory over the Orioles on Wednesday, but the biggest story might be happening off the field, as front office phones are reportedly ringing with offers for some of the team's biggest names.
The Guardians have now hit 21 home runs in their last 12 games and have gone deep in 12 straight games, their longest streak since 2021.
The Guardians' newfound power was on full display again Wednesday. José Ramírez continued his torrid pace, launching his 21st home run of the season—an incredible seventh in his last 12 games. But he wasn't alone. Angel Martínez was the offensive catalyst with three hits, while Kyle Manzardo and Bryan Rocchio each chipped in with two crucial RBIs. On the mound, rookie Joey Cantillo was solid, earning his second big-league win by allowing just one run over five innings. Emmanuel Clase shut the door for his 22nd save, sealing a win that pulls the Guardians to just 2.5 games out of a Wild Card spot.
This recent success makes the upcoming trade deadline incredibly tricky. According to MLB insider John Heyman, teams are showing significant interest in All-Star left fielder Steven Kwan, closer Emmanuel Clase, and standout reliever Cade Smith. While the front office is listening, as they always do, the team's rebound from a brutal 10-game losing streak has made a full-on 'sell' seem highly unlikely. A compelling, can't-refuse package would be required to pry away any of that core trio. It's more probable that veterans like Carlos Santana, Jakob Junis, or Lane Thomas could be on the move if the team decides to retool on the fly.
Of all the names being floated, Steven Kwan's generates the most anxiety among fans—and for good reason. He's an All-Star hitting .288/.352/.398 and is under team control for another 2.5 years. Despite the rumors, sources indicate a trade remains a longshot. The front office values his production, clubhouse presence, and long-term fit far too much. Without an obvious, major-league-ready replacement in the system, trading Kwan would solve one problem (acquiring prospects) while creating a massive new one in left field. Expect the calls to continue, but don't expect Kwan to be packing his bags.
Amidst the high-stakes drama, the team made a couple of routine roster moves, recalling righty Nic Enright from Triple-A Columbus and sending shortstop Gabriel Arias there to begin a rehab assignment. These moves provide depth but don't signal any larger strategy. The real focus remains on the field and in the front office.
The Guardians are suddenly one of the most interesting teams in baseball. They're winning games, hitting homers, and sitting tantalizingly close to a playoff spot, all while navigating a trade deadline that could reshape the roster. The next week will define their season. Can they keep this hot streak going against Baltimore and beyond? And will the front office choose to buy, sell, or stand pat? One thing is for sure: it's going to be a fascinating ride.
