James 'Rocky' Portier, former Negro Leagues player, dies at 88
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 4, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Oct 4, 2026
James 'Rocky' Portier, a former player in the Negro Leagues and spring training invitee with the Brooklyn Dodgers, passed away on September 28 at the age of 88. Portier's career included stints with teams such as the Indianapolis Clowns and New York Black Yankees. He also dedicated decades to umpiring and mentoring young baseball players in Florida. His historical significance includes being a living link to an important era of baseball, and his passing signifies another loss in the legacy of the Negro Leagues. Portier was recognized with honors, including a special day in Key West and induction into a Hall of Fame in 2018.
- •Portier played for Brooklyn Dodgers' spring training in the 1950s.
- •He was a fixture in Key West for over six decades as an umpire.
- •Portier had a notable career with the Indianapolis Clowns and Black Yankees.
- •He received honors including a day named after him in Key West.
- •His death marks the loss of a significant connection to baseball history.
- 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Former Dodgers Recruit, Black Yankees Backstop And Florida Baseball Legend Dies At 88
"The Los Angeles Dodgers got an update on a former spring training invitee who played in the Negro Leagues shortly after integration.
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