Dodgers: Justin Turner’s announcement continues new trend

It was not a surprise when Trevor Bauer decided to break the news of his signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers himself. He had provided a unique look inside free agency, sharing thoughts on his YouTube channel and on Twitter. While that accessibility may have rubbed some the wrong way, Bauer allowed fans inside his journey, something that the sport could use more of.

Nonetheless, Bauer was expected to be an anomaly. His attention seeking ways were not the norm in baseball – signings would be announced in the usual manner, with baseball insiders getting the information and rushing to be first. And then Justin Turner signed with the Dodgers.

Justin Turner continues trend in announcing return to Los Angeles Dodgers

It was not necessarily a surprise that Turner remained in Los Angeles. The Dodgers were the clear-cut favorites to retain his services, despite a competitive offer from the Brewers. Turner had blossomed into a star there, and was considered to be a beloved part of the clubhouse. It was just a matter of getting the details worked out.

But it is a surprise that he announced the signing himself. Turner has not been the type of player that really courts publicity. The details of his offseason and journey through free agency had been revealed the old fashioned way, with those scribes getting their information from sources attached to the teams and players.

Perhaps this is a shift in the way news will break when it comes to free agency. Players have started to get frustrated with the media, especially when those ‘rumors’ are far from the truth. Bauer and his agent, Rachel Luba, had feuded with Jon Heyman. Bob Nightengale infamously reported that Bauer had signed with the Mets.

The times are changing. As Major League Baseball refuses to market their players, those players are starting to take matters into their own hands. That includes announcing their decisions in free agency, as Bauer and Turner did.

Maybe there is nothing to see here. However, Justin Turner announcing his decision to return to the Los Angeles Dodgers and eschewing the traditional channels may be the start of something new.