Rafael Nadal vs. Fernando Verdasco

Nadal leads the pair's head-to-head series 10-0.

We've come to expect the unexpected from Nadal. He's always looking to improve his game, tinkering with his grips, foot positioning, and fitness. But what we've never seen from Nadal, what he's never been known for to be perfectly honest, is a blistering serve. Consistently clocking his delivery at over 130 MPH, Nadal has attributed his faster serve to a "little grip change." (Wouldn't it be nice if it was really that easy?)

Rolling through four eager but under-matched opponents, Nadal will next face his left-handed countryman, Verdasco.

Verdasco has played with courage and conviction to reach the final eight. Defeating an in form David Nalbandian in fourth sets, Verdasco came all the way back to oust the always dangerous David Ferrer in the fourth round. Hooking in a spectacular winner on match point against Ferrer, Verdasco will need all his reserves to be in line for a chance to upend Nadal.

Verdasco is certainly fit at the moment, but his long road to the quarterfinals will surely hinder the explosiveness in his legs, and subsequently his serve. A statement start will be imperative for Verdasco's chances, and I'm not convinced that he'll be able to last five sets against Nadal.
Verdasco does have a wicked forehand at his disposal, and numerous winners will have to sting off his racket from all parts of the court. However, the impression that I've got from Nadal in this event has been one of "calmness." Although that is one of his favorite words to use during his post match pressers, the Mallorcan has truly saved his best and calmest tennis for New York.
Verdasco should delight the crowd with his flowing locks, and his lights out forehand, but Nadal's improved serve, and efficient path the quarterfinals should provide for a relatively easy victory.

Pick: Nadal in four sets.