Drafted by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in the 8th round of the 2002 MLB June Amateur Draft from Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA).

Brother of Boston Red Sox' outfielder Jonny Gomes, Joey was born and raised in Petaluma, California. He attended Casa Grande High School and was a 1st Team All Sonoma County League, All Redwood Empire and received the Louisville High School All-American Selection award.

After graduating high school, Gomes continued onto Santa Clara University where he was 1st Team all WCC, All West Region, All American Sectional and received the SCU Male Athlete of the Year award in 2002.

Later in 2002, Gomes was selected as an 8th round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Rays, where he would immediately lead his short season single 'A' club in home runs with 16.  Additionally, Gomes earned a Class A All Star Selection and the Class A MVP award.  Gomes' lifetime statistics over 10 professional seasons: .301 hitter, 1003 hits, 101 HR’s and 526 RBI’s.