Pelfrey eager to improve on last season

MINNEAPOLIS -- Mike Pelfrey made it clear at the end of the season that he wanted to return to the Twins in 2014, and it became a reality in December when he signed a two-year, $11 million deal.

Pelfrey, appearing at TwinsFest for a second straight year on Friday, said he feels comfortable with the Twins and with pitching coach Rick Anderson, and he's excited to be back with the organization.

"This is where I wanted to be," Pelfrey said. "I'm happy that I had that chance. I'm glad to be back. TwinsFest is a little different this year. I actually know somebody. It should be a lot better."

Pelfrey, 30, posted a 5.19 ERA in 29 starts last year in his first season back from Tommy John surgery. But Pelfrey believes he's much better than what he showed, especially now that he's not worried about his elbow.

"I need to get back to doing what I've done before," Pelfrey said. "Someone asked me about last year, and I said, 'Hey, that wasn't me.' It was like a shell. So hopefully I can get back to having a normal year and eat up innings and throw up quality innings to give our team a chance. I take pride in taking the ball every fifth day and eating innings. Obviously, last year was nowhere close to my expectations or standards."