Cleveland Guardians star outfielder Steven Kwan expressed his appreciation for the city and fanbase when the three-time Gold Glove winner returned to the field on Friday. The MLB trade deadline on July 31 passed without Kwan being dealt, despite intense interest from multiple contending teams.

As trade rumors swirl around him, Steven Kwan says he wants to stay in Cleveland — but with the deadline looming, he’s staying focused on what he can control: playing his game.

CLEVELAND — At 5:51 p.m. ET Thursday, Steven Kwan’s phone rang. It was Cleveland Guardians president Chris Antonetti. Kwan’s heart sank.