Kelly Johnson said he is confident the strained left groin that landed him on the Yankees’ disabled list Wednesday will be sufficiently healed enough to allow him to play after the 15-day stint is up.
“I can’t imagine it would be longer than that,’’ said Johnson, who felt the injury getting out of the batter’s box in the 10th inning Tuesday night, when the utility player was in right field for the first time as a major leaguer.
“Never had a groin thing, hoping it was a cramp and I could stretch it out,’’ Johnson said. “It’s very disappointing, you never want to go on the DL. There is so much uncertainty there.’’
After using seven relievers in Tuesday night’s 2-1 victory in 14 innings over the Rangers, the Yankees replaced Johnson on the roster with right-handed reliever Chris Leroux, who was hurling at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated right-hander Bruce Billings for assignment.
The Yankees won’t carry eight relievers forever, and could recall outfielder Zoilo Almonte from Triple-A when the bullpen is rested.