Mike Pelfrey allowed hits to his first five batters and allowed five first-inning runs in the Twins 7-4 loss Tuesday in Kansas City. The Twins are now 4-4 on the season.

Joe Mauer's 364-foot home run in the top of the first inning gave the Twins a 1-0 lead after a half inning. However, the Royals lit up Pelfrey in the bottom of the inning for the 5-1 lead they would not surrender.

The Twins had a chance to make it interesting in the top of the ninth inning when they loaded the bases with two outs against Royals closer Greg Holland. However, Holland was able to strike out Joe Mauer to seal the win for Kansas City.

Josh Willingham and Eduardo Escobar also had home runs in the loss for Minnesota. The Twins and Royals will finish their three game series Wednesday night at Kauffman Stadium.

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