Pelfrey to start Grapefruit League opener

FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Right-hander Mike Pelfrey will start the Twins' Grapefruit League opener against the Red Sox on Friday at JetBlue Park, pitching coach Rick Anderson said Wednesday.

Pelfrey will start against Red Sox right-hander Anthony Ranaudo in the first Spring Training game for both teams. But the Twins aren't ready to announce their starter for their home opener against the Red Sox at Hammond Stadium on Saturday.

Pelfrey, 30, is looking to bounce back after posting a 5.19 ERA with 101 strikeouts and 53 walks in 152 2/3 innings. But he's another year removed from his Tommy John surgery in May of 2012 and is looking forward to not having to worry about his elbow this season.

"I feel normal," Pelfrey said. "I had a normal offseason and didn't have to do rehab or any of that stuff. So I feel good."