New York Mets ace Johan Santana made his spring debut after pushing back his first start because of elbow tightness.

Santana gave up four hits and three runs, including a homer to Dan Uggla, in 2 2-3 innings against the Florida Marlins. He struck out two and hit a batter in his first game action since having offseason knee surgery.

SANTANA HAPPY WITH OUTING

Santana needed just 10 pitches to get through a perfect first inning.

Hampered by a tendered elbow, Santana was scratched from a start Feb. 27 and saw his role as opening day starter put in jeopardy at one point. But he has breezed through several bullpen sessions and the two-time Cy Young Award winner is on track to make that first start in Cincinnati on April 6.