No such concept, i.e. being on sabbatical leave does not exonerate you from 1 yr non us stay requirements for next h visa. If employer provides "support" during your transfer to F1 status, it cannot be prevented. However in order to get back on H1 you will have to be away from US for one whole year continuously.
however you can tranfer to another non immigrant visa after 6 yrs on H1 (except h4) or if a LC or 140 is pending can apply for 7th yr extension..
