Marlins’ Johnson masters Mets
Even with less than his best, Josh Johnson can still beat the New York Mets.
The Florida Marlins ace gave up nine hits in six innings Wednesday night, but that was enough to keep him undefeated against the Mets in a 5-3 triumph.
Johnson trailed early, but improved to 7-0 with an ERA of 2.30 in nine career starts against New York.
It was hardly the matchup the injury-plagued Mets needed. They lost their fifth game in a row, and their disabled list grew to 13 players when pitcher Oliver Perez was sidelined with a season-ending knee injury.
Johnson (13-3), who allowed three runs, climbed 10 games above .500 for a team that’s eight over. Three relievers combined for three scoreless innings, with Leo Nunez pitching the ninth for his 16th save in 20 chances.
Ronny Paulino hit a two-run homer for Florida, and Cody Ross hit a two-run triple.
While the Mets can’t beat Johnson, Mike Pelfrey can’t beat the Marlins. Pelfrey (9-9) fell to 1-6 in 10 starts against Florida, with six losses in a row.
The right-hander gave up 11 hits, five walks and five runs in 5 2/3 innings. He threw a season-high 118 pitches, including 71 in the first three innings.
Florida won despite stranding 11 and going 1 for 7 with runners in scoring position.