Thu Oct 02 20:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Kwan Holds Key to Guardians’ Playoff Hopes as Crucial Game 3 Looms
**Cleveland, OH** – After a stunning late-season surge that saw them snatch the AL Central crown from the Detroit Tigers, the Cleveland Guardians are facing a pivotal Game 3 in their playoff series. While unexpected heroes like Brayan Rocchio and rookie Chase DeLauter have contributed, the team is desperately hoping for a spark from their leadoff hitter, Steven Kwan, who has been mired in a slump.
Kwan is currently enduring a 2-for-23 stretch at the plate, a downturn that began on September 25th. With the series on the line, the Guardians need Kwan to return to his usual form if they hope to defeat the Tigers.
“We can’t rely solely on the heroics of guys like Rocchio or DeLauter,” said a source close to the team. “We need our big guns to step up, and Kwan is a huge part of that. He needs to elevate his game.”
The stakes are high, especially considering the Tigers’ collapse after holding a commanding 15.5-game lead earlier in the season. The Guardians have had Detroit’s number recently, going 5-1 against them in September, but a Game 3 loss would negate that momentum.
Kwan’s ability to get on base and set the table for the rest of the lineup is crucial. His plate discipline and knack for reading the strike zone make him a formidable leadoff hitter when he’s at his best.
The Guardians will face Tigers pitcher Jack Flaherty in Game 3. Historically, Kwan has a .250 average against Flaherty. There is hope that familiarizing with Flaherty will benefit Kwan in this game.
There are signs of potential improvement. Kwan hit a key double in Game 2, contributing to an eighth-inning rally that helped secure a Guardians victory.
If Kwan can shake off this slump, Cleveland will be in a much stronger position to win Game 3 and advance in the playoffs. His performance is essential for the Guardians’ success as they look to continue their unexpected postseason run.
First Piper 