nicknamed "el goofo" and "goofy gomez", he was known for his sense of humor, even on the field. in one game, he came up to bat when it was slightly foggy. bob feller was on the mound and gomez struck a match before stepping into the batter's box. "what's the big idea?" asked the umpire. "do you think that match will help you see feller's fast one?" gomez replied, "no, i'm not concerned about that. i just want to make sure he can see me!" another time, a reporter asked the noted brushback pitcher, "is it true that you'd throw at your own mother?" gomez replied, "you're damn right i would. she's a good hitter." gomez also often remarked, "i'd rather be lucky than good."