Josh Johnson struggles for Marlins in 9-7 loss to the Nationals

Johnson struggles for Marlins in loss to Nats

JUPITER, Fla. — Josh Johnson knows he hasn’t pitched much like an ace for the Florida Marlins this spring.

“The mechanics are getting little more consistent, but I’m still not there, ” he said after allowing two runs and three hits in 4 1-3 innings as Florida lost 9-7 to the Washington Nationals on Sunday.

Johnson, who won 15 games last year, struck out four but he also walked two and gave up two extra-base hits, including a double to Chris Duncan after he allowed a two-out walk to Ian Desmond in the first inning.

Johnson, who signed a four-year, $39 million contract over the winter, left the game after walking Nationals pitcher John Lannan with one out in the fifth inning on his 80th pitch.