These 4 Guardians hitters need to get back on track for the stretch run

2. Steven Kwan

There was once a time not too long ago that it appeared that Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan would not only compete for the American League batting title but also be the recipient of some MVP votes, nothing too high but perhaps be a fringe Top-10 guy. That has since gone by the wayside with his performance in the season's second half.

Kwan has largely struggled since the All-Star Break, slashing just .205/.286/.305 with four home runs to go with one double and triple in 39 games. This is a far cry from his early season performance that made it look like he was going to at least flirt with 20 home runs and be someone that makes it much more difficult for opposing pitchers to navigate the top of Cleveland's lineup. Unfortunately, that has not been the case, with Kwan's performance at the plate being significantly lower than what he has proven capable of.

If Kwan can get back on track, it will give whoever bats second, in addition to Jose Ramirez, the chance to bat with someone on base, and that makes a huge difference. Instead of pitching around key bats later in the lineup, pitchers will be forced to pitch to them, and that will result in a lot more damage being done at the top of the lineup. Kwan is truly the person all of their potential future success hinges on, and his ability to be that difference-maker batting first will dictate how the rest of this season plays out.