Wladimir Balentien has apologized twice now — once in the United States and, on Wednesday, back on Japanese soil — with much of his time spent atoning to the Tokyo Yakult Swallows fans and the organization.
But how will those fans receive him beginning Feb. 1, when the Swallows open spring camp?
The team, at least publicly, has given him tepid support, with club president Tsuyoshi Kinugasa, according to Kyodo News, hoping Balentien plays with remorse and displays his talents on the field.