Small sample size warnings aside, a new offensive star may be blossoming in MLB: Cleveland Guardians outfielder Steven Kwan continues to shatter expectations and cement his place in the organization’s future with his good play.
The 24-year-old Kwan is off to a blistering start of his MLB career, hitting nine hits in his first 13 at-bats for a .692 average.
He has scored six runs and driven in three, with a .800 OPS and an unreal 1.800 OPS.
He doesn’t have 30-homer power, but with his incredible ability to make contact and his impeccable plate discipline, he figures to be a nightmare for opposing pitching staffs around the league.
In fact, getting on base is his game.
A Master Of Getting On Base
This data bit by Sarah Langs of MLB.com says it all about him.
“Most times reaching base in 1st 5 career games (since at least 1901): 2008 Jay Bruce: 17, 2022 Steven Kwan: 16, 1939 Fern Bell: 16, 1901 John Farrell: 16, it is the FIRST INNING of game 5 for Kwan!!” she tweeted.
Most times reaching base in 1st 5 career games (since at least 1901):
2008 Jay Bruce: 17
2022 Steven Kwan: 16
1939 Fern Bell: 16
1901 John Farrell: 16it is the FIRST INNING of game 5 for Kwan!!
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) April 12, 2022
Kwan walked in the first inning of the Guardians’ afternoon game against the Cincinnati Reds, but was caught stealing second base.
He should get at least three additional at-bats in the game, paving the way for him to tie or, potentially, set a new record of most times getting on base during his first five games.
He obviously won’t hit .600 for the season as a whole, but it’s not hard to envision him finishing with an average around .300 and an OBP close to .400, which would be elite.
Combined with his acceptable power and solid speed, he makes for a great player for a Guardians’ team in need of them.
What a discovery for Cleveland.
NEXT: Guardians Rookie Steven Kwan Doesn't Swing And Miss