Done deal: Marlins say they’ll announce RHP Josh Johnson’s 4-year contract Thursday

Marlins to announce Johnson’s 4-year deal Thursday

MIAMI — The Florida Marlins plan to announce pitcher Josh Johnson’s four-year contract with a news conference Thursday at the construction site of the ballpark they expect to move into by 2012.

Johnson agreed last week to a $39 million, four-year deal, just days after the Marlins pledged to increase payroll spending in response to complaints from the players’ union.

The right-hander gets $3.75 million in 2010, $7.75 million in 2011 and $13.75 million in both 2012 and 2013.

Johnson also will spend part of Thursday touring the ballpark construction site, which is where the Orange Bowl used to stand. He was an All-Star last season, going 15-5 with a 3.23 ERA in 209 innings.