CLEVELAND, Ohio — Guardians left fielder Steven Kwan has been named to the American League All-Star team for the second time in his career, but this year’s selection carries a special significance for the fourth-year outfielder. Unlike his previous appearance, which came via fan voting, Kwan earned this year’s honor through votes from his peers – fellow players and coaches around the league.

“It’s a huge accomplishment, especially getting voted in by my peers,” Kwan said. “Probably one of the greater accomplishments of my career. So, I’m really honored. It’s a cool feeling.”

For Kwan, the recognition from those who compete alongside and against him daily represents a profound form of validation. The left fielder, who is currently batting .298 with a .777 OPS, six home runs, 28 RBI, and leading the league with eight outfield assists this season, expressed the deep meaning behind this particular selection.

“You play this game every day against the guys who are doing the same thing,” Kwan explained. “You form a level of respect with those guys and to get their respect and their vote, that means everything to me. It just emboldens me to continue playing the game the way I do and hopefully keep the consistency going.”

Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, who will join Kwan and teammate Jose Ramirez in Atlanta, said the left fielder more than earned his spot on the roster.

“Kwannie is of the best outfielders in the league, one of the best hitters,” Vogt said. “He earned every bit of it.”

The selection didn’t come without some anxiety for Kwan, who admitted to feeling nervous while awaiting the announcement.

“Definitely been a little nervous over the last week. Just curious if that was going to come through. So finally getting that word out was really relieving,” he said.

Looking ahead to the All-Star festivities, Kwan said he is focused on the connections and memories he’ll make there.

“Just being with those guys again,” Kwan said. “A lot of those guys that are there, I’ve watched from afar and had a ton of respect with. Any of those moments in the locker room on the field, I know I’ll cherish those forever.”

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