ST. PETERSBURG -- Kevin Kiermaier was taken out of the game against the Rangers on Friday night with left hip tightness. He exited after the second inning, and the Rays said it was a precaution. The Gold Glove center fielder was replaced by Nick Franklin, who entered in left field, with Mikie Mahtook shifting over to center field.
Kiermaier missed nearly eight weeks earlier this season after breaking a bone in his left hand.
This season, Kiermaier is batting .219 with seven homers and 25 RBIs. He grounded out to first base in the first inning.