Wladimir Balentien Breaks the NPB Home Run Record

Wladimir Balentien signed with the Tokyo Yakult Swallows in 2010 and quickly made a splash as one of the leagues most fearsome hitters. On September 10, 2013, Balentien tied the single season record shared by Sadaharu Oh, Tuffy Rhodes, Alex Ramirez, and Alex Cabrera.

On September 15th at home against the Hanshin Tigers, he broke the record and stands alone. At the end of the 2013 season it was revealed that the NPB had secretly introduced a juiced ball resulting in more home runs. Despite a foreigner finally being allowed to break the record, it remains controversial.

Central League MVP (2013)
6× NPB All-Star (2011–2014, 2016, 2018)
2× Best Nine Award (2012-2013)
3× Central League home run leader (2011–2013)
280 Home Runs