Yankees place Kelly Johnson on DL with groin strain

The Yankees have placed infielder Kelly Johnson on the disabled list with a groin strain, the team announced Wednesday. 

Johnson left Tuesday's 14-inning win over the Rangers prior to the 11th inning after pulling up while running out a ground ball. 

Johnson is batting .219 in 77 games for the Yankees this year. The Yankees have used him in a variety of defensive roles, but he has primarily been deployed at first and third base. Tuesday marked his first career appearance in right field. 

The Yankees acquired third baseman Chase Headley from the Padres Tuesday.

More: Yankees take gamble in grabbing Chase Headley from Padres​

Pitcher Chris Leroux will take Johnson's spot on the 25-man roster. In six major league seasons Leroux has made 65 appearances. He had a 5.08 ERA in six starts for the Yankees' Triple-A affiliate this season.

To make room for Leroux on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated Bruce Billings for assignment.

- Dan Gartland