Anthony Rendon hit a two-run homer to highlight a big second inning that carried the Washington Nationals to a 6-2 win over the St. Louis Cardinals in a Grapefruit League clash.

Chris Marrero added an RBI single during Washington's four-run outburst in the second, while belting a solo homer later on as part of a 2-for-3, two-RBI performance at the plate.

Rendon and Ian Desmond also finished 2-for-3 for the Nationals, who collected 11 hits as a team.

Gio Gonzalez started for Washington and was reached for a pair of runs on five hits over the first three innings. Ryan Perry tossed three scoreless frames in relief.

Allen Craig ended 2-for-3 and knocked in both St. Louis runs to pace the Cardinals offensively. Adam Wainwright struggled on the mound, with the former 20-game winner tagged for five runs (4 earned) and eight hits in a three- inning stint.

Game Notes