Pettitte follows A.J., exits in 3rd inning with groin injury

For the second consecutive game a Yankees starting pitcher was removed because of injury in the third inning.

Andy Pettitte left today's game with a strained left groin.

Pettitte was lifted with one out in the top of the third and runners on first and second. Pettitte struck out Ben Zobrist to start the inning, but then surrendered back to back singles.

Jorge Posada came out to the mound and had a few words with Pettitte before motioning to Joe Girardi to come out. Girardi and the infield came to the mound and after observing Pettitte throw one practice pitch, Girardi walked Pettitte back to the dugout.

David Robertson came in to pitch and got out of the inning without giving up a run.

Pettitte was taken to New York Presbyterian Hospital for an MRI.