Cantu, Johnson still out

Jorge Cantu’s stiff neck is still bothering him, and he was out of the starting lineup on Friday in the series opener with the Braves.

Cantu, who also didn’t start on Thursday at Houston, attempted some swings in the cage on Friday afternoon, but he didn’t feel right. He was shut down. Manager Fredi Gonzalez hasn’t ruled out using Cantu as a pinch-hitter. There is a chance he still could start in the series at Atlanta.

Cantu also didn’t start on Thursday in Houston.

Nick Johnson, resting a strained right hamstring since last Sunday, most likely won’t play the entire series in Atlanta. However, the Marlins are hoping to avoid placing him on the disabled list, retroactive to Aug. 17.

The Marlins are off on Monday, before opening a series at home with the Mets. The hope is Johnson will be ready for Tuesday.

Friday’s lineup against the Braves.

1) Coghlan, LF

2) Gload, 1B

3) Hanlye, SS

4) Uggla, 2B

5) Baker, C

6) Ross, CF

7) Hermida, RF

8) Helms, 3B

9) Sanchez, P

– Joe Frisaro