Steven Kwan’s optimistic take on Chase DeLauter gives Guardians reason to believe

While Steven Kwan is about to start his fifth year in MLB, he’s the closest thing to a grizzled veteran in Cleveland’s outfield picture. As of now, the Guardians’ outfield picture consists of one other arbitration-eligible player (Nolan Jones) and a bunch of young players and rookies. 

One of those rookies is top prospect Chase DeLauter, who made his MLB debut in last year’s postseason but still has yet to see any regular season action. But that short postseason cameo has just increased the hype for DeLauter, who is carrying the weight of the franchise’s future on his shoulders. 

It’s clear the sky is the limit for the 24-year-old, and Kwan added some more emphasis to that with some new comments he made at spring training. 

Earlier today, The Athletic’s Tyler Kepner published a story focusing on the Guardians’ lack of offensive additions this offseason. But Kwan added some extra emphasis to the context around that inaction with a refreshing perspective about the team’s young players. 

What I mean by that is, we win with the lineups they construct and the pitching staff they construct. So it’s like, they clearly know what they’re doing up there. And, yes, it would be nice if we could go sign a Kyle Tucker — but, I mean, who’s to say that Chase DeLauter won’t be the next Kyle Tucker?” Kwan said, per Kepner. 

Steven Kwan provides refreshing take on Guardians’ offseason inaction 

Kwan’s comments were a good reminder that just because the Guardians’ front office didn’t make a big splash this offseason doesn’t mean that all hope is lost. In fact, it could be just the opposite thanks to the team’s budding stars like DeLater and George Valera. 

Even though the Guardians failing to nab one of the clear, inexpensive free agent options was frustrating, they still have a bevy of young players who seem poised for a breakout. 

That list begins and ends with DeLauter, who has light tower power but has struggled with injuries throughout his time in the minors.

Had he not gotten hurt he likely would have made his MLB debut at some point earlier in the 2025 season, but Cleveland’s front office was aggressive in promoting him at a time when some teams wouldn’t have done so. 

Kwan’s initial comment on Tucker pretty much sums up how Guardians’ fans feel as well. While signing Tucker would be great, there’s no reason to get your hopes up that that could happen because of how much he costs. 

The Guardians are never going to be able to pay enough to get the most expensive free agents, so they’ve pivoted toward putting smart people in positions of power when it comes to player development. 

Thus is life for a small-market team in MLB. While it’s worth debating whether the Guardians need to be as frugal as they are, they’ve put some faith in their young players this season, and Kwan’s comments were a reminder of how smart of a plan that can be.