A blocked nomination would leave the court with 8 members for the longest time that I am aware of happening. I think it might well be counterproductive for the Republicans as a party and as candidates for the Presidency to make this all about blocking. It is the sort of tactic that will appeal to their voters but not swing voters. Given current polling, it could ironically be something that would contribute to them losing the chance to nominate the next couple of Supremes.
Just a note to Hope, the system doesn't ensure balance, indeed to avoid deadlock, it ensures there isn't balance. That there is a close split is not built in.