Those that backed Hard Spun in the Derby certainly have a strong case to believe that the Larry Jones trainee will improve in the Derby. After all, the Run for the Roses was his first start in six weeks, and he was the only one to finish in the top four that raced in the front half of the field early on.

However, supporters of Curlin also can feel confident that the lightly raced son of Smart Strike can improve given the experience he gained two weeks ago, and the fact he managed to rally for third despite finding himself shuffled back to 14th after the opening six furlongs.

With a smaller field of just nine, Curlin should be able to find a quiet spot behind the front runners and race in the clear.

So which can be expected to improve more, Hard Spun or Curlin? And which stands the best chance of derailing Street Sense’s Triple Crown aspirations?

At a better price, accord the edge to Curlin.