18

I've seen this term used in various questions, but have no idea what it means, so could someone please define or explain it for me please?

Improve this question
2

3 Answers 3

Reset to default
10

A straddle refers to an extra blind bet made preflop. Typically, this is made by the first player after the big blind (e.g. the Under-the-gun player), however in some variants that is not the case (some allow the button to straddle; others allow straddles from any position on the table). In the end, it depends on the rules of the casino. In almost all situations, the player who makes the straddle is given the right to act last preflop. Postflop order of play is unaffected (and proceeds the same as it would if there were no straddle).

For more information on the types of straddles and when they might be useful, see http://www.parttimepoker.com/understanding-the-straddle-in-texas-holdem-poker-facts-thoughts-and-strategies

Improve this answer
3
  • When done from a non under-the-gun position, it is known as a Mississippi straddle and it's quite popular in the southern United States.
    – msergeant
    Jan 25, 2012 at 3:06
  • Sometimes. Another variant is the Indiana straddle. It depends largely on the order in which the positions get the chance to straddle.
    – Jeffrey Blake
    Jan 25, 2012 at 3:31
  • 1
    It is possible to make a sleeping straddle (as opposed to a live straddle). A sleeping straddle is a straddle made not under the gun and it only stands if no-one has raised the pot before the action reaches the straddler. If someone has raised in front of the player then the straddle is taken back. The intention of the sleeping straddle is to stop people from limping in before the straddler - since the straddler has already announced that there is a raise.
    – Lee Oades
    Jan 26, 2012 at 11:43
4

A straddle is when someone takes the option of the big blind by putting in a bigger blind. For example, if we had $1-$2 blinds, the first person after the big blind could "straddle" by putting in a $4 blind. They not only raise the blinds but can take the last to act preflop position, if the straddle is "live".

Improve this answer
1

A straddle is an extra blind. It is typically double the previous big blind (some games may allow other amounts, especially at no-limit), and becomes the new big blind amount. Generally this is done in UTG position, and it is "live", in that if there has been no raise when the action gets back to the straddler, he has the option to raise. Some casinos allow a straddle in other positions. Some allow multiple re-straddles, so that a 1-2 blind game, for example, might have a $4, $8, and $16 restraddles making it $16 to go.

The term "kill" is often used for a straddle that not only raises the big blind, but raises the betting limits for the whole hand. These are often posted out-of-position and made mandatory on certain occurrences like scooping in a high-low game.

Finally, there is the rare, but fun, "sleeper" straddle which is a straddle always out of position with the following rule: if all players between UTG and the sleeper fold, then the sleeper's straddle is "on", and acts just as if it has been an in-turn straddle. If, however, someone before the sleeper calls or raises, it is "off" and he can take whatever action in his turn he wishes.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.