Josh Johnson gives up two runs in two innings; Marlins beat Cardinals 6-5

Josh Johnson solid in start for Marlins

JUPITER, Fla. — Marlins ace Josh Johnson has started earning his $39 million contract.

Making his first start since signing his lucrative four-year deal in January, Johnson allowed two runs in two innings in Florida’s 6-5 win over the Cardinals on Saturday.

Johnson, who’ll be Florida’s opening day starter after posting a 15-5 record in 2009, looked like an ace in a perfect first inning that ended with Albert Pujols looking at a called third strike.

But he was a little rusty in the second inning, which started with Colby Rasmus connecting on a 2-2 pitch for a long home run to right field.

Right-hander Kyle Lohse made his spring debut for the Cardinals and allowed one run on six hits in 2 2-3 innings.