URGENT UPDATE: Guardians All-Star outfielder Steven Kwan will miss today’s game against the Athletics due to persistent soreness in his right wrist. This development comes as Kwan has been battling wrist issues for over a month, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming games.
Manager Stephen Vogt confirmed Kwan’s status is day-to-day, emphasizing the need for caution. Kwan’s wrist troubles first emerged when he left a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on May 28 due to inflammation. Following his participation in the All-Star Game on July 11, Kwan consulted doctors and received an injection to alleviate the pain.
During the All-Star Game, Kwan made a significant impact with a crucial infield hit that drove in Bobby Witt Jr. for the tying run, leading to a thrilling tie at 6 after nine innings. The game was ultimately decided by a swing-off, marking a unique moment in All-Star history.
Vogt noted the decision to allow Kwan to participate in the All-Star Game was made with full awareness of his wrist condition. “We encouraged him to go play in the All-Star Game. He earned the right. We knew this was coming,” Vogt stated, highlighting Kwan’s determination to compete.
This is only the sixth game Kwan has missed this season, where he is currently batting .285 with six home runs and 32 RBIs. Kwan’s absence will be felt as the Guardians strive to maintain momentum in the season.
In other team news, pitcher Shane Bieber is set to make his next rehab start on Tuesday, July 18, for either Triple-A Columbus or Single-A Lake County. Bieber, recovering from Tommy John surgery in April 2024, recently threw two scoreless innings, striking out five in an outing with the Arizona Complex League.
Infielder Gabriel Arias has also begun a rehab assignment for Triple-A Columbus after spraining his left ankle on June 29. The Guardians have made adjustments, recalling right-hander Nic Enright from Columbus after Paul Sewald was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right shoulder strain.
Additionally, top prospect Travis Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick in last year’s amateur draft, has been activated off the injured list by Double-A Akron after missing two months due to an oblique strain. Bazzana has a batting average of .252 with four home runs, 17 RBIs, and eight stolen bases in 33 games for the RubberDucks.
As the Guardians navigate these injury challenges, fans are eager to see how the team adapts and who will step up in Kwan’s absence. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
