FORT WAYNE, Ind. - Former Fort Wayne RHP Brandon Gomes made his major-league debut with the Tampa Bay Rays. He became the 97th Fort Wayne alum to reach the big leagues.

Gomes, 26, opened the season with Triple-A Durham, going 0-1 with six saves and a 1.35 ERA to earn a promotion to Tampa Bay. Since joining the Rays' bullpen, he has delivered 3.1 hitless innings.

"Brandon is just the latest of so many players who have come through Fort Wayne on their way to accomplishing their dreams of playing in the major leagues," TinCaps president Mike Nutter said. "We take pride in showcasing the major-leaguers of the future each night at Parkview Field."

Gomes was drafted by the Padres in the 17th round of the 2007 draft and went 5-6 with a 4.10 ERA in Fort Wayne in 2007 and 2008. He shifted to the bullpen in 2008 and shot up the minor-league chain. Gomes was part of a four-player package traded to the Rays this off-season in exchange for SS Jason Bartlett.

The TinCaps open a six-game homestand Tuesday at Parkview Field. They take on the Bowling Green Hot Rods (Class-A Tampa Bay Rays) Tuesday at 7:05 p.m.