If he really wants to get Rove off the front page... then he should name a true conservative. Naming a consensus pick that the Dems like won't take up much air time.
O'Connor, Kennedy and Souter were all stealth candidates. The difference is the Republican President involved didn't have a 55-seat majority in the Senate. I don't see any reason not to nominate a sure thing unless one likes to play Russian Roulette with one's legacy and the well-being of the Republican party.