SEATTLE -- Gio Urshela's performance has been arguably the Yankees' biggest surprise of what is shaping up as a memorable season, which is why it was so concerning to see the third baseman exit early in Wednesday's 7-3 win over the Mariners at T-Mobile Park.

Urshela was removed for precautionary reasons after experiencing tightness in his left groin while running out a second-inning infield hit. Urshela came out of the game in the fifth inning, and manager Aaron Boone is hopeful that the injury will prove to be minor.

"I think he’s OK," Boone said. "We wanted to be safe with that, and hopefully it’s something that is not a big deal."

Urshela said that he expected to be available to play on Friday, when the Yanks open a series with the Athletics in New York. Boone said that he did not know if Urshela would have an MRI or other tests during the club's off-day on Thursday.

"I think it's just a little tight," Urshela said.

When Urshela exited, New York shifted DJ LeMahieu from second base to third base, with Didi Gregorius taking over at shortstop from Tyler Wade, who moved to second base.

If Urshela misses any significant period of time, the Yankees could use a similar defensive alignment, with Gleyber Torres at second base. Torres served as the DH on Wednesday.

In 114 games, Urshela has compiled a .331/.370/.555 slash line with 32 doubles, 18 homers and 67 RBIs.