What ingredient balances the vodka in a Bay Breeze?

In a Bay Breeze, the ingredient that balances the vodka is pineapple juice. This cocktail typically consists of vodka, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice. The pineapple juice adds a sweet, tropical flavor that complements the vodka's more neutral profile, creating a refreshing and smooth beverage.

The combination of fruity flavors helps to mask the alcohol's strength, making the drink more palatable. The sweetness of pineapple juice, in particular, pairs well with the tartness of cranberry juice, resulting in a well-rounded drink that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Other ingredients listed, such as lemonade, soda water, and tomato juice, do not belong in this particular cocktail and would alter its intended flavor profile significantly. Thus, pineapple juice is the key balancing ingredient in a Bay Breeze.