After a successful ten game homestand, the Braves hit the road tonight as they open a holiday weekend series in the Nation’s Capital against the Washington Nationals.The Braves won six of ten on their homestand and did so by winning the final four games. They concluded a three game sweep of the Philllies last night winning 5-2. Casey Kotchman and Garrett Anderson each hit two run homers to spark the offense, while Javier Vazquez and four relievers scattered eight hits. Mike Gonzalez picked up the win in relief.

The Braves will sendout Kenshin Kawikami to the mound tonight. He’s 4-6 with a 4.25 ERA. Rookie Ross Detwiler will start for the Nationals. He’s 0-4 with a 5.24 ERA. The Braves have gone 4-2 against the Nationals this season.

The Braves Tommy Hanson has been named the National League Rookie of the Month after going 4-0 with a 2.48 ERA. Opponents batted just .222 against Hanson in his five starts. Two of his victories came against the Yankees and the Red Sox.

Braves pitcher Tim Hudson threw 90 pitches in a bullpen session yesterday as he continues to rehab his surgically repaired elbow. Hudson is scheduled to rejoin the team in mid August. He will throw batting practice next week and his first minor league start is tentatively set for July 19th at Class A Myrtle Beach.