Hanson aims to carry dominance into July

Washington (22-55) vs. Atlanta (39-40), 1:05 p.m. ET

Mark Selig / MLB.com

WASHINGTON -- In a dark visiting team lounge at Nationals Park, a large high-definition television illuminated Tommy Hanson's body, as the 6-foot-6 pitcher leaned back in a leather seat, watched a movie and relaxed the afternoon before his scheduled Saturday start.

It's easy being Hanson these days. Or at least that's the way the 22-year-old phenom makes it seem.

Since arriving in the Majors on June 7, Hanson is 4-0, the Braves are 5-0 when he starts and the big right-hander -- who won Rookie Pitcher of the Month in June -- hasn't allowed a run in 20 innings.

"It's just been fun the whole time I've been [in the Majors]," Hanson said. "I'm real excited to go out [Saturday] -- being the Fourth of July in the nation's capital, it should be fun."

With his 2.48 ERA and spotless record, Hanson has yet to face much resistance since a shaky first start.

"You feel like you're going to win when he goes out there," manager Bobby Cox said. "That's the best feeling you can have."

Cox is most impressed with the rookie's composure and ability to get out of jams. The Braves manager even said that Hanson "fits right in there" with some of the best young pitchers he has coached -- a list that includes numerous future Hall of Famers.

With a simple, gimmickless windup Hanson looks like any generic righty on the mound. But a lively mid-90's fastball, a huge curveball and deceptive changeup shoot out of his tall frame and keep hitters off-balance.

Pitching coach Roger McDowell thinks Hanson's simple delivery allows the rookie to stay consistent and control his pitches.

"His pitches speak for themselves," McDowell added. "But his poise, mound presence and conviction to his pitches set him apart from some other young pitchers.