Tim Hudson allowed just an unearned run over seven innings to beat the Nationals on Thursday. It's the third time in four starts and fourth time overall that Hudson has pitched seven innings and not allowed an earned run. He doesn't figure to remain one of baseball's very best pitchers all year long, but nor is he likely to fall apart at any point. He is going to end up making that two-year, $23 million deal he signed with the Giants look like a bargain.