The Los Angeles Dodgers aimed to strengthen their roster at the MLB trade deadline by pursuing outfielder Steven Kwan, a move intended to complement Shohei Ohtani and improve the team‘s lineup. Despite aggressive efforts led by manager Dave Roberts, the Dodgers were unable to finalize a trade for Kwan, leaving their plans unsettled.

Steven Kwan: A Highly Coveted Talent

Within the Dodgers’ ranks, Kwan was seen as the ideal candidate to replace Michael Conforto in left field. However, the Cleveland Guardians were determined to keep their multiple All-Star outfielder, demanding a high price for any trade involving Kwan. Alongside the Dodgers, teams such as the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Diego Padres expressed serious interest in acquiring him.

The Guardians’ asking price proved too steep for many, requiring top prospects like Leo De Vries—who was eventually traded from San Diego to the Athletics for Mason Miller. This reluctance to part ways with Kwan ultimately ensured that he remained in Cleveland, disappointing those teams hoping to add his skills to their rosters.

Dodgers Adjust Strategies Following Kwan’s Stay in Cleveland

With Steven Kwan staying put, the Dodgers shifted their focus toward Alex Call of the Washington Nationals. While Call brings respectable batting capabilities, he does not offer the same impact that Kwan could have provided. This adjustment has left Dodgers manager Dave Roberts reconsidering his approach as the team continues to compete closely with rivals like the San Diego Padres in a highly competitive season.

The inability to secure Kwan represents both a missed opportunity for Los Angeles and a significant moment in the trade deadline dynamics, highlighting the challenges teams face when balancing talent acquisition with prospect costs. The Dodgers’ ongoing pursuit of key players will remain a central storyline as the MLB season progresses.