What's with the Rays' losing streak?

Yes, I predicted a strong second half for the Rays based on the strong batting lineup and predicated on mediocre pitching.

So, what's going on? The Rays have dropped seven straight and the starting pitching has been, well, mediocre.

I hate to admit it, but I think that the trade I applauded, that of left-handed power-hitter Aubrey Huff, has been the biggest factor in the skid.

Huff had rebounded from an early batting slump to raise his average over .250. It's taking some time for the team to adjust to his absence, and the batting order is decidedly weaker with him gone. That said, the sacrifice this season probably pays off for the team in the future as they can avoid re-signing Huff to concentrate on the players who should serve as the keys to the Rays' future success (Kazmir, Baldelli).

Add to that the fact that the Rays have faced some pretty good pitching following the All-Star break. Minnesota's starting pitching is scary and the Angels threw a couple of pretty good arms out there, also.

One key for the team making good on my prediction is the play of Johnny Gomes. Gomes had a terrific start to the season but has struggled lately. The team needs for Gomes to start hitting like he did early in the season--or at least like he did last year at about this time.