Wladimir Balentien doesn't subscribe to the theory held by some that it's easier to rebound from a slump that comes early in the year as opposed to one closer to the finish line.

Balentien, who, like the rest of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, is looking for the solution to the team's current struggles, would just as rather have no slump to deal with at all.

"Sometimes a lot of people say it's better at the beginning of the season, but for me, I think I probably don't want it at the start or the end," Balentien told The Japan Times outside the Yakult clubhouse prior to Friday night's 4-3 loss to the Chunichi Dragons.