The Pick: Ash Barty vs. Barbora Krejcikova, WTA Cincinnati quarterfinals

It’s difficult to argue against both Ash Barty and Barbora Krejcikova as the WTA's best players so far in 2021. The Czech—who defeated Garbiñe Muguruza on Thursday—owns 39 singles wins to go along with a French Open title, as well as a pair of WTA 250 titles in Strasbourg and Prague. Barty—who obliterated Victoria Azarenka 6-0, 6-2 in the third round—owns 37 wins, including her maiden Wimbledon championship, and titles in Melbourne, Miami and Stuttgart.

The Aussie won their lone singles encounter at the All England Club, 7-5, 6-3, but there shouldn't be any secrets between them given their seven clashes on the doubles court. According to the oddsmakers, Barty is listed as a solid -330 favorite and projected to win by 3.5 total games.

Krejcikova hits the ball like a brick off both wings. Her smooth swing and solid base provide easy and repeatable power. With her technically flawless backhand slice, she can fend off Barty's trademark change of pace better than most. But if the Aussie keeps striking her forehand with pinpoint accuracy, like she’s done all summer, I’m not sure what the Krejcikova game plan should be.

Barty’s devastating crosscourt forehand typically follows her first serve or knifing backhand slice. If the ball sits up in the middle of the court, like it does below, her ball-striking can be a little too clean to combat.

Personally, I will be monitoring the match, hoping that Krejcikova wins the first set. The Czech has been making early statements all week long, losing just five total games in her first three first sets. But against Yastremska and Muguruza, she took her foot off the gas pedal.

If Barty loses the first set, she is definitely worth a live-bet at what will likely be around +180. Krejcikova rebounded from her second-set dips just fine against Yastremska and Muguruza, but will not have that luxury against the world No. 1.

The Pick: Ash Barty -3.5