Santana makes spring debut, Marlins beat Mets 16-8

[March 13, 2009]  PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (AP) -- Johan Santana was glad to finally get his spring debut over with.

Held back because of elbow tightness for two weeks, the Mets' ace gave up four hits and three runs, including a homer to Dan Uggla, in 2 2-3 innings against Florida in the Marlins' 16-8 victory on Thursday night. He struck out two and hit a batter in his first game action since having offseason knee surgery.

Florida's Ricky Nolasco was impressive once again as he continues to make his case to become the team's opening day starter. The right-hander gave up three hits and one walk in four innings. Uggla homered twice, Jay Gibbons and Jeremy Hermida hit three-run homers, and Logan Morrison had a solo shot for the Marlins.

[Associated Press]

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