Martinez & Porcello the 1-2 punch as Tigers beat Nationals, 4-2

Victor Martinez hit a two-run shot and Magglio Ordonez added two hits, leading Detroit past the Washington Nationals 4-2.

It was the first homer of the spring for Martinez, who signed a four-year, $50 million contract with the Tigers in the offseason.

Martinez’s drive off reliever Todd Coffey in the sixth inning might have had a little help from the wind blowing out to right field.

While the catcher’s ability to drive in runs was the main reason the Tigers signed him, there is no question Martinez’s experience behind the plate is also paying off with a young pitching staff.

Detroit starter Rick Porcello bounced back from his only shaky outing of the spring, allowing one run and five hits while striking out three in 4 2-3 innings. He has already developed a bond with his new catcher.