Yankees BREAKING NEWS: Johnson to DL

May 18, 2014; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Kelly Johnson (33) fields a ball during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

According to the New York Yankees official Twitter account, Kelly Johnson has been placed on the DL. The Yankees have made two corresponding moves in return, designating Bruce Billings and recalling reliever Chris Leroux from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. It is still uncertain how much time Johnson will miss. It may be time that the Yankees finally #promotepirela!

Johnson, who was signed to a one-year, three million dollar deal in the off-season, has struggled this season. He has helped in the field playing the outfield, first base, second base and third base, but has struggled with the bat in the Yankees’ anemic offense this season. Johnson suffered the groin injury in Tuesday’s game and an MRI determined he would need to miss some time. He is batting .219 with six home runs and 22 RBI on the season. Tuesday’s acquisition of Chase Headley will make it tough for Johnson to find playing time when he returns.

Bruce Billings was designated to make room for Leroux on the 40-man roster. In a brief stint with the Yankees this season, he allowed four runs in his four innings pitched. He pitched a stellar game for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this past Monday, going seven innings allowing just one run while striking six and walking none. This is Leroux’s second trip to the Bronx this season. The 30-year-old right-hander did not fare well on his first stop, going 0-1 while allowing seven runs in just two innings pitched. Overall, Leroux is 2-2 with a 4.45 ERA over seven starts in the minors this season. He is sure to see some work tonight if the Yankees need some bullpen assistance after last night’s marathon win over the Rangers.