Wladimir Balentien sets new NPB single-season home run record

Wladimir Balentien of the Yakult Swallows set a new Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) single-season home run record by hitting his 56th home run on September 15, 2013. The milestone occurred during a game against the Hanshin Tigers at Jingu Stadium.

Balentien’s 56th home run broke the long-standing record of 55 home runs set by Sadaharu Oh in 1964, a mark that had stood for 49 years. Balentien followed the record-breaking shot with a 57th home run in the same game. He eventually concluded the season with a total of 60 home runs.