On April 7, 1996,Ā National LeagueĀ umpireĀ Eric GreggĀ is given a leave of absence following a meeting betweenĀ American LeagueĀ presidentĀ Gene Budig, National League presidentĀ Len Coleman, andĀ umpires unionĀ headĀ Richie Phillips. Gregg, listed at 325 pounds but visibly heavier, makes the decision in the aftermath of theĀ Opening DayĀ death of fellow umpireĀ John McSherry, who succumbed to a massive heart attack. The NL hopes that Gregg will lose weight and improve his health during the layoff.
