BASEBALL / NATIONAL LEAGUE PLAYOFFS

Plate umpire John McSherry left Game 7 of the National League playoffs Wednesday night after 1 1/2 innings, apparently feeling weak.

McSherry, who appeared pale and was sweating profusely, consulted with NL President Bill White after the Pirates batted in the second, then talked with the rest of his crew. After about two minutes, McSherry left the field along with Brave trainer Dave Pursley.

Randy Marsh, who was umpiring at first base, moved behind the plate. The game resumed after a delay of 11 minutes, with right-field umpire Ed Montague shifting to first base.

McSherry, 48, was working the playoffs for the seventh time. He has been an NL umpire since 1971, and worked the World Series in 1977 and 1987, and the All-Star game in 1975, 1982 and 1991.