Table of Contents Foreword Razz Poker Rules The Top Twenty-OneRazz Poker Hands Starting Hands Rules to Know Stealing An Essential Ingredient for Winning 3rdStreet Play Don’t Be the Azz in Razz Razz Starting Hand Point System Reading Players and Hands 4thStreet Heads-up Play 3rd and 4thStreet Advanced Concepts 5thStreet A System to Make the Right Decision 6th Street Play It Usually Pays to Stay 6th Street Play Advanced Concepts 7thStreet When in doubt, call! Strategies into Action: Actual Play on Full Tilt Poker Razz PokerPlayer Cheat Sheet Razz Poker Tips Appendix: Simulations Does your online site include PokerSurance?
Foreword You will be a winner at poker...Razz poker. Razz Poker is the easiest way to consistently be a winner because it’s the only game left where you can get an edge. Remember when poker tournaments appeared on TV, and the same players kept getting to the final tables. Those players (the Pros) had the edge because they already knew the strategies to winning No Limit poker, and were playing against others who didn't. Now, though, with hundreds of books, articles, videos and online sites devoted to No Limit poker, their edge is gone, and amateur players are winning big. The same advantage the Pros have for Limit poker and Omaha are also going away. Razz poker is the one remaining game where the knowledge base remains small because most players have climbed on the bandwagon of the bigger and better known games. Yet, to win at Razz poker and in the “R” in HORSE poker, you need to know what the other players still don't. Play Razz Poker to Win is going to give you that winning edge. It is the first book dedicated to the game of Razz poker. It builds on the accumulated knowledge about Razz poker from the top poker pros: · Championship Stud by Dr. Max Stern and Linda Johnson (chapter on Razz) · Full Tilt Poker Strategy Guide-Tournament Edition (chapter on Razz) · Play Poker Like the Prosby Phil Hellmuth, J (chapter on Razz) · Sklansky on Poker, by David Sklansky (chapter on Razz) · Super/System (original book) by Doyle Brunson (a few pages on Razz) · Theory of Poker, by David Sklansky (Razz used to
support some key theories) And creates new strategies that are often based on simulations and probablilites using the ProPokerTools Razz simulator (ProPokerTools.com) In Play Razz Poker to Win, you will find: · A new Starting Hand Point System that allows you to calculate the strength of your hand as it relates to the exposed cards on board, the betting action of your opponents and your position. · How to steal the antes by taking advantage of both passive and aggressive players. · A new strategy for 4 th street play when you are dealt a mediocre or bad card, called the Two-Level Rule · Proof that the best drawing hand after five cards is not always the favorite over an already made 9 low! · A new strategy for 5 th street play that determines if and how you should continue to play your hand; and it’s not as simple as the best hand versus the best draw. · How the pot odds on 6th street is usually big enough to see the last card. · How being a calling station is not a bad concept when it comes to 7th street play. Play Razz Poker to Win is a new look at a game that is going to be more important than ever as the champion at HORSE poker is seen as the best poker player in the world. Yet, you don’t have to be a champion poker player to be a consistent winner at Razz poker. All you need is the winning strategies that you’ll find in this book. Acknowledgements: In writing this book, I want to thank Marc Johnson, who was able to convert playing card clip-art into fifty-three usable, black and white images. Importantly, I want to dedicate this book to the people who have contributed the most to my poker
play. First, my Mom and Dad who encourage me to play poker and believe that poker is not a sin but an enjoyable game of skill. Second, Andrea Siegel who was my “poker manager” for years when I started playing poker, and who just wants a small piece of the action. Finally, to the tournament directors in the San Francisco Bay Area card rooms that spend so much time and effort in providing a great environment for poker players. Thanks! Mitchell Cogert, 2008
Razz Poker Rules The objective of Razz poker is to make the lowest possible hand from the seven cards you are dealt. The cards are dealt just like in 7-card stud, except that an Ace is always low and straights and flushes have no effect on the value of your hand. The lowest hand in Razz poker is A-2-3-4-5, and this is called a wheel, a bicycle or a bike. Razz is played with two to eight players, and is a fixed limit game. In a fixed limit game there is a set amount that can be bet by each player in each round.
The sequence of action in a hand of Razz poker is the following: 1. At the start of each hand, every player must ante a set amount. This is often about 1/5 of the low limit bet size. 2. Each player is dealt three cards; that is, two cards facing down, and one card facing up. This is known as 3rd street. The player with the highest card facing up must start the action, which is called the “bring-in” bet. The bring-in bet is a set amount, and is lower than the low limit bet size. The bring-in bettor has the option to raise the bring-in bet and make a bet that is equal to the low limit bet size. (Note: If two or more players have the highest ranked cards, the bring-in bet is determined by which player has the highest suit of that rank. The suit order is spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs. Therefore, the King of spades would be the bring-in bet, when tied with another card that has a rank of King.) 3. Action proceeds clock-wise from the bring-in bettor. Each player can fold, call, or raise the bring-in bet. All bets are equal to the low limit bet size. 4. After this first round of betting, the players still in the hand get dealt another card face up. This is called 4thstreet, as each remaining player has four cards. The player with lowest hand showing acts
first, and the action proceeds clock-wise. Each player has the choice to fold, call, or raise. All bets are equal to the low limit bet size. 5. After this round of betting, the players still in the hand get dealt another card face up. This is called 5thstreet, as each remaining player has five cards. The player with the lowest hand showing acts first, and the action proceeds clock-wise. Each player has the choice to fold, call, or raise. All bets are equal to the highest limit bet size, which is double the low limit bet size. 6. After this round of betting, the players still in the hand get dealt another card face up. This is called 6thstreet, since each remaining player has six cards. The player with the lowest hand showing acts first, and the action proceeds clock-wise. Each player has the choice to fold, call, or raise. All bets are equal to the highest limit bet size. 7. After this round of betting, the players still in the hand get dealt another card face down. This is called 7thstreet, since each remaining player has seven cards. The player with the lowest hand showing acts first, and the action proceeds clockwise. Each player has the choice to fold, call, or raise. All bets are equal to the highest limit bet size. 8. The player with the lowest hand wins the pot.
The Top Twenty-One Razz Poker Hands
(1) 5-4-3-2-A (2) 6-4-3-2-A (3) 6-5-3-2-A (4) 6-5-4-2-A (5) 6-5-4-3-A (6) 6-5-4-3-2 (7) 7-4-3-2-A (8) 7-5-3-2-A (9) 7-5-4-2-A (10) 7-5-4-3-A (11) 7-5-4-3-2 (12) 7-6-3-2-A (13) 7-6-4-2-A (14) 7-6-4-3-A (15) 7-6-4-3-2 (16) 7-6-5-2-A (17) 7-6-5-3-A (18) 7-6-5-3-2 (19) 7-6-5-4-A (20) 7-6-5-4-2 (21) 7-6-5-4-3
Starting Hands Rules to Know Razz poker is the one game left where you can get an edge against your opponents. While thousands of books, articles, and videos have been devoted to No Limit Hold'em, Hold'em, and Omaha, little has been written about the game of Razz. But, the best Razz players know how to win because they realize that knowing how to play starting hands is crucial. If you follow the rules below, you will be on your way to cashingin on the game of Razz.
Razz Poker Starting hand classification: In Sklansky on Poker, Sklansky provides a simple but excellent classification of the hands you should consider playing in Razz: · Excellent hand: 3-2-A; this is called a bike. · Good hand: Three cards to a 6 or a 7-4. This is called a smooth 7. · Fair hand: Three cards to a rough 7 or smooth 8. · Poor hand: Three cards to a rough 8 or a three card 9. The definitions of smooth and rough are very important in understanding Razz. A rough 7 starting hand is 7,6,5, while a smooth 7 starting hand is 7,2,A. A rough 8 starting hand is 8,7,6 while a smooth 8 starting hand is 8,2,A.
Rule #1: Consider playing all hands with cards between A-8. On average, you’ll receive one of these hands once in about every 6 hands. When you get dealt a hand, you need to immediately notice the following:
· Your three cards · Your exposed card · The exposed cards of your opponents · How many of the exposed cards are duplicate cards to your hand
· How many of the exposed cards make your low hand · Your position to the bring-in bettor and opponents who have low cards showing · The actions of the players who act before you. It sounds like a lot, but it's really not that hard with just a little practice.
Rule #2: As the number of duplicate cards to your hand increases, so does the power of your hand. Example: You have a (4-5) 6 and your opponent has the best starting hand (A-2) 3. But, you have four duplicate cards exposed on board 4,4,5,5,9,J and your opponent has none. You are a 61% favorite against this opponent. With three duplicate cards, you are a 57% favorite. On the other hand, if your opponent has 3 duplicates on board to your none, he is a 63% favorite. Board:
You:
Opponent:
Your (4-7) A is a favorite over (2-3) 5 if three duplicate cards are exposed for your hand. Your edge is 56%. If there are only 2 duplicates, your
edge is only 53%. And, if you have just one duplicate your edge is gone, as it is 50%/50%.
Rule #3: In Razz, when two players who both have an 8 or better starting hand go to 4th street, neither player will typically have a significant edge. In hold'em, a starting hand like pair over pair can give a player an 80% edge going to the flop. In Razz, a player will have a big edge if he starts with a 58%/42% lead going to 4th street.
Rule #4: To increase your chances of winning a pot, try to get headsup from the start by raising the bring-in bettor. It is important to realize that your chance of winning a hand in Razz is reduced as the number of players in a pot increases. Since the edges in starting hands are not that great, you want to reduce the number of opponents to one (or better yet, get everyone to fold). For perspective, if you are a big underdog against two opponents, you’ll probably be at worst a 40%/60% underdog heads-up if you get the third player to fold.
Example: Player A: (2-4) 6 Odds: 42% Player B: (A-5) 8 Odds: 22% Player C: (4-6) 7 Odds: 35% If Player B folds on 3rdstreet, the odds for Player A/Player C is 55%/45%. If Player C folds on 3rdstreet, the odds for Player A/Player C is 56%/44%. Example: You have (A-2) 6, your opponent has (3-5) 8, and the board shows you have 2 duplicates in A,2,9,9,J,J. You are a 63% favorite. However, you add a third opponent in this same situation with a (3-5) 7. The odds of winning the hand have declined dramatically to only 39%.
Rule #5: When there are 4 or more cards on board that will help you make your 8 low, and 2 or more players have shown strength by raising and
re-raising, fold your hand. Since players get three cards 8 or lower only one in six hands dealt, they often jump at the opportunity to play their hand. This is a mistake. Board:
Player A:
Player B:
You:
You have (A-2) 8 and the board has 4 cards you need to make an 8 or better and no duplicates. The first two players show cards you need for an 8 low, and the first raises and the next reraises. Now, of the 20 cards you need to make an 8 low hand, 4 cards are definitely gone and it is probable that there may be another 4 or more cards you need hidden. This means that your chance of getting an 8 low has been reduced by 40% or more. And, given the strength of the board, you may even need to hit a 7 low or better.
In addition, you are going to be against at least two opponents, so your odds of winning are reduced even further.
Rule # 6: When there are 3 cards or less exposed on the board that will help you to make your 8 low, and there has only been one raise, you should play your hand. Example: You have (A-2) 8 and an early position player with (x-x) 5 raises. The board has 3 exposed cards that will help you make your 8 low. Should you call the raise? Yes. Assuming your opponent has the best starting hand with his 5, an (A-2), he is only a 54% favorite. Again, given the pot odds it’s an easy call. And, you have the benefit of being heads-up against your opponent; being heads-up significantly increases your chance of winning.
Rule #7: When you have three cards to a bike, play your hand even if there has been a raise and a reraise. Example: You have (A-2) 5 and there are two duplicates on board. If the first player with a duplicate card raises, and the next player with a duplicate card re-raises, it should not effect your play. While your opponents have strong hands, you must play this hand. While their actions indicate some of your cards may be in their hole cards, you have the potential to hit the best low hand, a A,2,3,4,5, and you can still win with a higher, low hand.
Rule #8: Raise or re-raise with your excellent and good hands (a smooth 7 or better) in any position. However, if there has been a raise and reraise in front of you, and you have no duplicate cards exposed, consider folding your smooth 7. Rule #9: Raise or fold your fair hands (rough 7 or smooth 8) depending on the number of players behind you who have low cards exposed. Example: The reason to raise with a hand like a
smooth 8 with three low cards behind you is that by raising you give yourself a chance to win the pot right away, plus you may only be called in one place and end being heads-up going to 4thstreet. If your opponent raises your bet, you should call his raise as you will not be that far behind going into 4th street. However, with four or more players with low cards behind you, fold these hands.
Rule #10: A poor hand (rough 8 or three card 9) should always be folded if you have three players behind you with low cards showing. Rule #11: Re-raise a player when you know you have a better hand than him. Example: A player to your left with a 7 showing comes in with a raise. You have a (2-4) 6. Raise. You want to isolate against this opponent as you are in the lead. And, if you have duplicate cards exposed, you have even more reason for a raise as your edge has improved. In fact, you should consider raising the player who comes in with a raise even if you think he has a better hand than you to get heads up. For example, if the first player raises and has a 6 showing, you may want to raise with your smooth 7, if you can get heads-up. This allows you to find out if your opponent is really that strong and to have proper odds to call on 4thstreet even if you hit a bad card.
Stealing An Essential Ingredient for Winning Stealing is a key part of Razz poker. You can’t sit back and wait forever, since the antes and bring-in bets will slowly erode your money. Don’t bleed-out at the poker table. If you want to win, you must steal the antes.
1. Look for opportunities to steal the antes and bring-in bets. Online Razz players hit their fold button too fast. Wait for your turn before you decide your action, as a stealing opportunity may present itself. It is agonizing when the bring-in bettor shows a King, and everyone folds. The player to his right had a 10 showing, but hit his fold button without waiting to see the action. Wait. Don’t put yourself on autopilot, there’s money to be won!
2. Look to steal when you are to the right of the bring-in bettor. If everyone folds to you, raise with your lower exposed card. Example: If you have a 9 showing and everyone folds to you, you must raise the bring-in bettor who shows a Q, even if you have pocket 9's as your hole cards. 3. Look to steal when your exposed card is
lower than all other player's exposed cards. Example: If your exposed card is an 8, and all the players have higher cards showing, you should raise to steal. Of course, if you are first to act, your exposed card is a 3, and all the other players show 4’s and 5’s, it is not smart to steal without very strong hole cards.
4. Look to steal when everyone folds to you, you have an exposed low card, and you only have to get past one other player. Example: You have (J-5) 4 and your opponent has a (10-7) 2. Everyone folds to you, so you raise
as a steal with one low card in the hole. Your opponent calls your raise. Even though your steal hasn’t been successful, your opponent only has a 57% edge. You can still win on 4 thstreet if you hit a low card, and bet as a semi-bluff. Example: You have (K-Q) 4 and your opponent has a (10-7) 8. Everyone folds to you, so you raise as a steal with two high cards in the hole. This is a riskier play. If your opponent calls, he is an 82% favorite, and if he re-raises, you should fold. You may want to randomize this play to the times where you have one low card in the hole. In addition, note that your opponent’s exposed card can be higher or lower than your exposed card.
5. Look to steal when you show an Ace Since you have the best low card showing, your opponents can’t determine the true strength of your hand. Again, you may want to try this play only when you have one low card in the hole.
6. Look for a limp-steal, especially from an early position. Example: You have a playable hand in early position but there are two or more lower exposed cards behind you. When you limp, it looks to your opponents that you have a good but not great hand (like three cards to an 8-low), and you are concerned about the players who have those lower exposed cards. Often, you’ll be heads-up with the bring-in bettor and you’ll win the pot with almost any card on 4th street.
7. If you believe a player is stealing, and you are in position, re-raise the stealer to get heads-up or get him to fold. If you think a player is stealing, always look to raise and reraise. Example: The bring-in bettor is to your left, and everyone folds to the player on your right who shows an A, and raises. If you have (2-J) 4, and believe
your opponent is stealing, re-raise. The stealer may fold to your raise, or you will win the pot when you hit good and he hits bad on 4th street.
8. If you notice a player who raises too often on 3rd street, re-raise him since he can’t always have a big hand. Some players are very aggressive, especially when the table is short-handed. Against these players you need to re-raise and get heads-up. If the stealer calls your bet, you should even consider using his aggressive play against him, and slow-play your hand if you hit good cards.
9. If you notice a player re-raises too often on 3rd street, you should try to get heads-up against him. A few players almost always re-raise a player who raises on 3rd street. Try to get heads-up with this player. You can often steal the pot on 4 thstreet. Or, if you get good cards, you can even slow-play to win a bigger hand. The bully at a Razz poker table wins a lot of pots, especially when the table is shorthanded.
10. If you notice a player is so tight that he never defends his bring-in bet, look to raise him. Example:If your exposed card is a 9, and the bringin bettor has a 10, he will fold even if you are last to act and are stealing.
3rdStreet Play Don’t Be the Azz in Razz There are many things Razz players do, which they should not do. As a result hands that can be won, instead are lost. Hands that should be folded, instead end up being costly. Don’t chase without the proper odds. Don't be the azz in Razz.
1. Don't ignore the action when you have folded your hand on 3rd street. Watch how your opponents' play their hands:
· Do they come-in with a raise all the time or do they just call? · How often do they raise? · How strong are their hands when they call and when they raise? · How often do they steal? Too often or not at all? · How often do they defend their bring-in bet? In what situations? · Do they chase when they are behind? · Which street do they decide to fold when they seem behind? · Do they ever slow-play? With which hands? · Do they check-raise or check-raise bluff? On what streets? All players have tendencies that you can use to help you make the right decision. 2. Don't defend your bring-in bet when your
exposed card is two-levels higher than your opponent. Razz players will defend their bring-in bet too often, especially when their hole cards look good. This is a mistake. When you are the bring-in bettor, here are the odds you are getting to call if you have two good hole cards and your opponent has the hand he is representing:
· Your exposed card is four-levels higher than your opponent (like 9 versus 5). You are 10-1 to catch up on 4th street. · Your exposed card is three-levels higher than your opponent (like 10 versus 7). You are 6-1 to catch up on 4th street. · Your exposed card is two-levels higher than your opponent (like J versus 9). You are 4-1 to catch up on 4th street. · Your exposed card is one-level higher than your opponent (like 9 versus 8). You are almost 3-1 to catch up on 4th street. Example: You are the bring-in bettor with (A-2) K, and everyone folds to the player to your right who shows a 4 and raises. You believe he is stealing, and want to call. The problem is that you may be wrong, and you may be chasing a strong hand. Also, you are hoping to hit good on 4thstreet, and your opponent to hit a K on 4thstreet. And, even if he hits a King on 4thstreet, you are hoping to hit better than your opponent on 5thstreet as well. The combination of these outcomes points to a clear fold. Example: You are the bring-in bettor with (A-2) 10, and everyone folds to the player to your right who shows an 8 and raises. While there is a better chance your opponent will get a card 10 or higher than in the previous example, it is still a bad play. Example: You are the bring-in bettor with (A-2) 9, and everyone folds to the player to your right who shows an 8 and raises. If the board shows you have three duplicates, you should call. If it does not, and you believe your opponent is stealing, you can call just to mix up your play. You don't want to always fold your bring-in bet to the player to your right. 3. Don't get carried away with trying to win with your bring-in bet hand, even though one or more players just called.
Sometimes you will see this bring-in bettor try to win the hand with a bet on 4thstreet hoping his opponents will fold. They don't fold and when he misses on 5th street, he has wasted a bet. Example: You have (7-9) J and bring it in. Two players call, one showing a 6 and the other showing an 8. On 4thstreet, both players hit bad cards — each with a Q, and you hit a 5. While you have improved your hand, don't bet since your opponents will not fold. Wait to see what happens on 5 thstreet. If the same thing happens on 5thstreet, you can bet and have confidence that your opponents will fold.
4. Don't rule out slow-playing your starting hands. Slow-playing a strong hand with just a call is often a very profitable play in Razz. The benefits to slow-playing are the following: · when you just call, opponents believe your hand is weaker than it is · when you just call, any opponent who raises, defines the strength of his hand. But, he does not know the strength of your hand — which gives you an edge. · if you both hit good cards on 4thstreet, your opponent will think you are chasing when you may be ahead · if you hit a good card on 4thstreet and your opponent does not, when you bet your opponent will mostly likely call and be the one chasing. This is an ideal situation for you to win a big pot. Slow-playing is even more powerful against the too aggressive Razz player. You can trap this player for a big pot by allowing him to bet all the way to 7thstreet, and calling or raising on the end.
5. Don't be one of those players who always raises with an Ace showing. While it is a good play to try to steal with your Ace up card, don’t do it every time. Your opponents
will notice, and they will take advantage of this play. A good way to randomly decide when to raise with your exposed Ace is to wait for when you have one low card in the hole.
6. Don't forget that players can't see your hole cards. This seems obvious but players give a winnable pot away when all they look at is their own hand. On 3rdstreet, it is most obvious with stealing opportunities like the example above. On 4thstreet and later streets, the player who checks a hand when in the “visible” lead often loses the hand.
Example:
You have (2-3) 5 and raise. Another player with an A showing re-raises you, and you call. On the flop you get an 8, and your opponent hits a 4. He acts first and checks! Is he setting a trap? Most likely he is not. Most likely the 4 has paired his hand, so you can bet as you have the lead.
9. Don't forget to adjust your starting hand requirements for shorthanded play and look to steal more often. The value of your exposed card and position
increases as the number of players decrease. For example, when you are at a four handed table, the first player to raise with a low exposed card will raise as a steal, as he only has to get past two other players and the bring-in bettor.
Razz Starting Hand Point System Here is a simple point system to give you an edge in playing the first three cards dealt to you in Razz. Follow the five steps below as it will properly value the strength of your hand given the cards exposed on board, your position in the hand, and the betting action taken by your opponents. It works! 1. Assign the following points to your hand using the chart below (assumes 8 players):
2. Add or subtract points based on the exposed cards on board: Each duplicate card to your hand: +1 point Each card needed to make your hand: -1 point 3. Subtract points based on the action of your opponents: Each call of the bring-in bet: - 1 point Each raise of the bring-in bet: -2 points 4.Subtract -1 point for each player who has a low card after your potential action in a hand: 5. Total the points and act as follows: If the total points are:
Example: Board:
You:
You have (A-6) 7. And the board is Q, 9, 6, 2,7, J, 10, 5. Points: Your hand is 7-6 low=6 points. One duplicate=+1 pt., Two cards needed=-2 pts. One player behind you with a low card: -1 pt. Total before there is action on the hand: You have 4 points. Everyone folds to the player with the 2 showing. He raises. Subtract 2 points. Total: You have 2 points, so you need to call the raise. Example: Using the same hand, but your opponents’ actions are different. You have (A-6) 7. And the board is Q, 9, 6, 2, 7, J, 10, 5. Points: Your hand is 7-6 low=6 points. One duplicate=+1 pt., Two cards needed=-2 pts.
One player behind you with a low card: -1 pt. Total before there is action on the hand: You have 4 points. Everyone folds to the player with the 6 showing. He raises. Subtract 2 points. The next player with the 2 showing, re-raises. Subtract 2 points. Total: You have 0 points, so you need to fold.
Example: Board:
You:
You have (A-7) 8 and the board is K, J, 10, 8, 2, A, 5, 9. Points: Your hand is 8-7 low=3 points. One duplicate=+1 pt., Two cards needed=-2 pts. Three players behind you with a low card: -3 points. Total before there is action on the hand: You have – 1 point. Everyone folds to you. Total: You have -1 point, so you need to fold.
Example: Board:
You:
You have (A-2) 5. And the board is K, 9, 2, A,5, J, 3, 9. Points: Your hand is 5 low=10 points. Two duplicate=+2 pts., One card needed=-1 pt. One player behind you with a low card: -1 pt. Total before there is action on the hand: You have 10 points. Everyone folds to the player with the 2 showing. He raises. Subtract 2 points. The next player with the A showing, re-raises. Subtract 2 points. Total: You have 6 points, so you need to re-raise.
Example: Board:
You:
You have (A-7) 6. And the board is K, 9, 2, A,6, J, 3, 9. Points: Your hand is 7-6 low=6 points. One duplicate=+1 pt., Two cards needed=-2 pts. One player behind you with a low card: -1 pt. Total before there is action on the hand: You have 4 points. Everyone folds to the player with the 2 showing. He raises. Subtract 2 points. The next player with the A showing, re-raises.
Subtract 2 points. Total: You have 0 points, so you need to fold.
Reading Players and Hands It is important to try to get a read on your opponent and his hand. Here are tips to help you figure out if your opponent is strong, weak or somewhere in between.
1. Players have tendencies when playing Razz poker. Watch how your opponents play their first three cards, as it will help to determine how to play against them:
· Tight players: Always wait for three low cards, and raise when they are first in the pot. They miss many stealing opportunities. · Aggressive players — Raise too often on 3 rdstreet, and like to steal too often. · Limpers: Like to get in cheap on 3rdstreet to see the next card. · Slow-players: Like to trap by limping in with their big starting hands. · Razz poker winners: They win more often. They know when to make a play, and who to make a play against. If they get past 5thstreet, they bet aggressively either because they have the best hand or they are bluffing. In addition, you should notice the following: · Which players defend their bring-in bet too often, and the relative strength of their exposed cards to the raiser on 3rd street · At showdown, notice the players hole cards and evaluate how they played their hand Finally, don’t forget that your good opponents are also evaluating your table image. Based on how you are playing, try to understand your own table image as it may effect how you play against different opponents.
2. The first raiser in a hand does not necessarily have a good low hand, but the caller will almost
always have a good starting hand. Example: If a player raises with a 4 showing and a player calls with a 6 showing, the raiser may be on a steal but the caller most likely has three cards to an 8 or better.
3. A player who calls the raiser on 3 rd street tends to have a good but not great hand. Example: If a player raises with a 7 showing and a player calls with an A showing, the caller probably has a good, but not a great hand. If he could beat the 7 low, he would have re-raised. 4. In general, the higher the up card, the lower the
hole cards. Example: A player that comes in with an 8 showing will likely have small cards in the hole. So, if he catches an A or 2 on 4 th street, there is a better chance he has paired up than if he hit a 7 on 4thstreet. And, if the player comes in with a 9 showing, you can be fairly certain he has the smaller low cards in the hole.
5. If your opponent has raised on 3rd street with a low card showing that is higher than two or more players with lower exposed cards, he probably is perfect (A-2) or near perfect in the hole. Example: If a player raises on 3rdstreet with (x-x) 8, and he has players behind him showing better low cards, like A, 3, A, it's highly like his hole cards are perfect or near perfect.
6. If your opponent has raised in a steal position on 3rd street, his hole cards are probably weak. Example: On 3rdstreet, after the bring-in bettor everyone folds to a player who has (x-x) 4. The next player shows (x-x) 3 and the following player is the bring-in bettor with a (x-x) Q. If this first player raises it doesn't mean his hand is strong, as he is in a stealing position.
7. Knowing which cards have been exposed can
help you to determine if your opponent has paired up or not paired up his hole cards on later streets. Example: If you have a 3 in the hole, two 3's have been exposed, and your opponent hits a 3 on 5thstreet, you know for sure that his hand has improved.
4thStreet Heads-up Play There are more mistakes on 4thstreet than any other street in Razz. This is because Razz players hate to fold a hand when they get to 4thstreet. These players are so happy to have a playable hand, they are willing to go to 5thstreet regardless of the cards dealt out on 4thstreet. It's important to try to read your opponent's hand, and to evaluate the relative strength of your hand compared to his hand. The following scenarios in heads-up 4thstreet play will help guide you to make the right decisions.
A. You are in the lead going into 4thstreet: Scenario #1-Both hit good cards: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after he called your raise on 3rd street. You both hit good cards on 4th street. If you are still in the lead, you should bet. Even though you are in the lead going into 4thstreet, it is never a big lead. So, when you hit another low card, and still lead on 4thstreet, you need to make your opponent pay if he wants to try and catch up. A bet here also gives your opponent the opportunity to fold. Clearly, the same situation exists when you hit good, and he hits a bad card on 4thstreet — bet out as you have the lead.
Scenario #2-Both hit good cards: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after he called your raise on 3rd street. Both of you hit good cards on 4th street, but he is in the lead. In most cases, you should call. In Razz, the pot odds on 4thstreet are usually good enough in close situations where you should make the call. In a $5-$10 game, you will be getting around 5-1. Plus, there is the chance that you can take the lead on 5th street.
However, the game doesn't end on 5 thstreet, and you need to look at your hole cards compared to his exposed cards, plus try to read his hand.
Example:
If you have (A-2) 5,8 and your opponent has (x-x) 7, 4 — it looks like your opponent is working on a 7 low, a strong hand. But, with the right card on 5thstreet, and given the strength of your hole cards, you should call.
Example:
If you have (7-6) 2, 8 and your opponent has (x-x) 5, A — your opponent may be working on a bike and you are hoping to catch an 8 low. Here is where you need to have a good read on his hand. If you think he is weaker than it appears, of course, you should call. If you think it is strong, you can fold here, because even if you catch up on 5thstreet, your opponent will decide that his draw is worth going to 7th street.
Scenario #3-He hits good, you hit a hidden pair: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after he called your raise on 3rd street. He hits good, but you pair one of your hole cards. You should bet out as you are in the “visible” lead. Example:
You have (A-2) 5 and raised on 3 rdstreet. Your opponent called your raise with a 6 showing. On 4thstreet, you are dealt an A and he is dealt a 7. You don't like the pair, but he doesn't know you have a pair. Don't take your foot off the pedal when you are in the “visible” lead. Give your opponent an opportunity to fold. If you check your pair, your opponent will bet out to see if you are setting a trap. If he does bet, you will need to decide the strength of your hand relative to your opponents. If your hand is a long shot to catch up, you should fold. But, if you have perfect hole cards to a bike, for example, you should call. This will be explained more on the chapter on 5th street play. Even with an exposed pair, you will probably be getting the right pot odds to call, in hopes of hitting a perfect card for a drawing hand on 5th street.
Example:
You have (A-2) 5, 5 and your opponent has (x-x) 6, 7. Your opponent maybe a 3-1 favorite, but the pot odds may be more than 5-1 on your call. If you hit your card on 5thstreet, and your opponent hits a bad card like a 10, you will be the favorite to win the pot.
Scenario #4-He hits good, you hit bad: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after he called your raise on 3rd street. Your opponent hits a good card and you hit a bad card. In most cases you should fold, but a call may be right
depending on your hole cards relative to his exposed cards, along with your read on his hand. Example:
You have (A-2) 5 and raised on 3 rdstreet. Your opponent called your raise with a 6 showing. On 4thstreet, you are dealt a Q and he is dealt a 8. Your opponent bets. You have (A-2) 5,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8. He is a favorite with the 8, but you are working at a bike for a low. Call the bet.
Example:
You have (7-8) 5, Q and your opponent has (x-x) 6, 8. You are working on an 8 low, but your opponent looks to be working on a better 8 low. This hand can be costly to you, so fold.
Scenario #5-You both hit bad: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after he called your raise on 3rd street. You both hit bad cards. Use the Two-Level Rule: If your 5 th street card is twolevels lower or more than your opponent, you should bet. If not, you should check, and call if
your opponent bets. Example: You are in the lead on 3 rdstreet, and you hit a Q and your opponent hits a K. Don't bet here. Most players will call your bet, and the cards on 5thstreet will often determine the winner. Example: You are in the lead on 3 rdstreet, and you hit a 10 and your opponent hits a Q. Bet. You have a big enough lead where you should bet.
Example:
You are in the lead on 3 rdstreet, and you hit a K and your opponent hits a pair. Don't bet here. While you are in the lead, you will be acting first on the later rounds putting you at a positional disadvantage. Wait till 5 thstreet to decide the relative strength of your hand. Otherwise, if he hits good on 5thstreet and you hit bad, you have wasted a bet.
B. You are behind going into 4th street: Scenario #6-Both hit good cards (but you are still behind): Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after you called his raise on 3rd street. You both hit good cards on 4 th street. If he is still in the lead, when your opponent bets, you should call. Example:
Your opponent raised on 3rd street with a 6 showing, and you called with (2-4) 8. On 4thstreet, he is dealt a 5 and you are dealt a 6. Your opponent has the lead and bets. You should call for the following reasons: a) Assuming he has two low cards, the pot odds are good enough for a call. Assuming he has an (A2) in the hole, he has almost a 2-1 lead. But, in a $5$10 game, where the antes are a $1.00, and the bring-in bet is $1.50, the pot odds are going to be about 5-1 for you to call. ($5 to call with a $24.50
pot). b) He may have paired up his hand. If so, you are about a 69% favorite. c) If you hit good on 5thstreet and your opponent does not, you will have the lead. For example, if on 5thstreet, your opponent has (A-2) 6,5,J and you have (2-4) 8,6,3, you are now a 67% favorite.
Scenario #7-Both hit good cards (you are now in the lead): Both you and your opponent are headsup on 4th street, after you called his raise on 3rd street. You both hit good cards on 4 th street. If you are in the lead, you should bet. This is true even if you paired your hand, as you have the “visible” lead. Scenario #8-You hit good, he hits bad: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after you called his raise on 3rd street. He is dealt a bad card, and you get a good card. You are in the lead, so bet. This is true even if you paired your hand, as you have the “visible” lead. Scenario #9-He hits good, you hit bad: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after you called his raise on 3rd street. Your opponent hits a good card and you hit a bad card. In most cases you should fold, but a call may be right depending on your hole cards relative to his exposed cards, along with your read on his hand. (see Scenario #4 above for the explanation.) Scenario #10-You both hit bad cards: Both you and your opponent are heads-up on 4th street, after you called his raise on 3rd street. You both hit bad cards. Use the Two-Level Rule: If you take the lead, and if your 4th street card is two-levels lower or more than your opponent, you should bet. If not, you should check, and call if your opponent bets. If you are still behind, and if your opponent's fourth-street card is twolevels lower or more than yours, if he bets, you
should fold depending on your hole cards relative to his exposed cards, along with your read on his hand. Example: You are behind on 3 rdstreet, but you take the lead when you hit a Q and your opponent hits a K. Don't bet here. Most players will call your bet, and the cards on 5thstreet will often determine the winner. Example: You are behind on 3 rdstreet, and you hit a 10 and your opponent hits a Q. You have a big enough lead where you should bet.
Example:
You are behind on 3 rdstreet, and you hit a Q and your opponent hits a 10. If your opponent bets, you need to decide the strength of your opponent’s hand. If your opponent raised pre-flop with the A showing, and he is likely to raise whenever he has an A showing, you should call. However, if this player is tight you may want to fold and not get into a potentially, costly showdown. Example: You are behind on 3 rdstreet, and your opponent hits a J and you hit a pair. Call if your opponent bets, and check if your opponent checks. You are going to have a positional advantage in this hand. Wait till 5thstreet to decide the relative strength of your hand.
3rd and 4thStreet Advanced Concepts Here are a few advanced Razz Poker concepts for 3rdand 4th street play. You may want to avoid trying these plays until you feel you have mastered the basics. These plays require that you have a good feel for the game of Razz and a good read on your opponents.
1. Look to get heads-up as it improves your chance of winning the pot. However, do not take this concept too far on 4th street, as it can cost you more money when your read on your opponents is wrong. Recall that your odds of winning your 8 low starting hand increases as the number of opponents decrease. On 3rdstreet, look to raise when you are first in the pot. On 3rdstreet, after a limper has called the bring-in bettor, look to raise. You want your opponents to fold, but if there is a call you want to be against just one player. The same desire to be heads-up is true on 4th street play. On 4 th street, if you are against two or more opponents, and the pot is big, use your betting to narrow the competition to one (or none, of course.) Example:You have two opponents on 4th street. Opponent A:
You:
Opponent B:
On 3rdstreet, opponent B acted first and limped in, and opponent A just called the limp in bet, and you are fairly certain opponent A is not that strong. So, if he bets out on 4thstreet, a raise by you should not only get opponent B to fold, but opponent A to just call your raise. However, if you believe opponent A is strong, your raise may backfire in two ways:.
1) Opponent A may have a stronger hand than you, and will re-raise your bet. 2) Opponent B may stay in the hand, as the pot is now big. You’ll often find players who don't want to be pushed out of pots on early streets. As a result, you have an outcome you wanted to avoid: putting in three bets on 4th street and still having two opponents.
2. Here is a 3rd street bluff that is effective against one opponent: If a player in middle to late position is first in the pot with a raise, and you are sure no player is strong enough to call your reraise, you should reraise with a low card showing even if you only have one low card in the hole. The reason this is an effective play is that you are going to be heads-up on 4thstreet, in a situation where your opponent believes you have a very strong hand: more importantly, a stronger starting hand than his hand. If on 4thstreet you hit good and he hits bad, a bet will often get your opponent to fold. Even if he calls, he believes he needs two perfect cards to beat you. Note that the 3rdstreet semi-bluff is more effective when your exposed card is lower than his exposed card, as it looks like you “know” you are in the lead. In addition, this play is especially effective in Razz tournaments at the higher blind levels; where your opponent can not add more chips, and his chip stack will be badly damaged if he goes deep in the hand against your “stronger” hand.
3. If your table is tight, limping with a low card showing when in early position, often allows you to be heads-up against the bring in bettor. This limpsteal is a positive outcome as it allows you to win with a bet on 4th street. Sometimes you will be in a Razz game where players are folding hand after hand, waiting for strong starting hands. In these games, the tactic of
limping with a low card showing will often induce other players to fold their 9 low or higher hands, and as a result, you will end up against the bring-in bettor. Being heads up against the bring-in bettor is a very favorable outcome and allows you to win with a 4thstreet bet with almost any card.
4. If you have aggressive players behind you, limp in with a strong hand with the intention of re-raising. At times, you will find players who are always aggressive against a player that limps into the pot. It allows the aggressive player to semi-bluff; meaning, that he is giving himself two ways to win: 1) the limper folds to the raise or 2) the raiser hits a good card and the limper hits a bad card on 4thstreet, forcing the limper to fold. By sometimes limping with a strong starting hand against this player, you can trap him when he is actually weak by re-raising, and getting him to fold.
5. If one player limps into a pot, and if you have a low card showing, and you are sure no other player except the bring-in bettor will be in the hand on 4th street, you can call this bet given the favorable pot odds. The odds the limper is giving you is very favorable, as it can be 10-1. When you call, you will have an opportunity to beat both opponents if you hit a better card than your opponents on 3rd street. Risking a small bet with such goods odds is something to look for in Razz. However, if you hit a bad card and one of your opponents hits a good card, you should fold. Don’t chase with a weak draw.
6. When there has been a raise and a re-raise on 3rd street, the pot size is now large enough that if you hit bad on 4th street, it is worth calling a bet on 4th street to try to catch up on 5th street. Example:
You have (4-2) 3 and your opponent shows (x-x) A. You raised and he re-raised on 3 rdrd $10 razz game, the pot size is now $29.50, and it will only cost you another $5 if your opponent hits a good card and leads out on 4thstreet. Even with your bad card, you are betting $5 on 4th street to win $34.50. You should call and hope to take the lead on 5 th street.
7. If you think a player in a back position is trying to steal with a raise, you must re-raise. You need to be aware of the times your opponent is trying to steal. When you are in the right position relative to this stealer, you must re-raise and not call. A re-raise states to your opponent that you have a strong hand and if you hit good on 4th street, he will have to fold. If you just called his raise, you are allowing your opponent to take the lead on 4thstreet with a bet, which lets him have control and puts doubt in your
read of his hand. Further, if you hit a good card on 4 thstreet and bet, and your opponent calls your bet, you need to re-think your read. His call will often mean that he actually has a hand, and is not stealing.
8. When two or more players enter the pot on 3rd street in front of you, it is important that you realize your chances of winning the hand has decreased and play your hand accordingly. Example: After the bring-in bet, Opponent A limps with (xx) 6, the next player raises with (x-x) 2, and everyone folds to you in front of the bring-in bettor. You need a good hand to call this bet, since you will be against two opponents, and one of those players may have an excellent hand.
9. If you hit a great draw on 4th street you should consider slow-playing your hand. It can set you up for a bigger win in the hand. Example: You have (2-4) A, and your opponent shows (x-x) 6. On 4th street, you hit a 3 and your opponent hits a 7. If you check here, your opponent may think you paired your hole card, and bet. Just call and let him take the lead to the river. If all goes according to plan, you will win a big pot. If you bet out on 4thstreet, your opponent may fold when he doesn't catch up by 5th street.
10. While you should always be evaluating the play of your opponents, don't forget to think about the image you are presenting to your opponents. It is always a good feeling to win a pot when your opponents fold on 3rdand 4thstreet. In fact, sometimes you will be surprised when they fold as they have a weaker hand than expected or pair up a hole card on 4thstreet. In addition, it’s even better to win a big pot, when your opponent misreads your hand and tries to chase you down on 7th street. By creating an image as a strong Razz player, your opponents will make mistakes and fold when
they should call, and call when they should fold.
5thStreet A System to Make the Right Decision 5thstreet is the key decision point in Razz poker since not only does the betting size double from this point forward, but also in most cases, if your hand is good enough to play on 5thstreet, it's good enough to go all the way to the end. This is where you need to know if it's worth investing more money in your hand. If not, you are chasing without the proper odds. Don't be the azz in Razz. This introduces a new system to properly evaluate the strength of your hand compared to your opponent's hand. Many headsup simulations were completed to develop this system (see appendix for details). Importantly, if you have a strong read on your opponent, follow your read first.
1. There are two key questions to ask when you get to 5th street. On 5th street, look at your opponent's exposed cards and your hand, and ask yourself the following questions: A. Who is “in the lead”? Definition of “in the lead”: Unless you can read your opponent's hand extremely well, assume that his hole cards help and don't hurt his hand. Therefore, the player whose exposed cards are lower than their opponent's exposed cards, are assumed to be “in the lead.” Action: The player who is in the lead should bet his hand to try to win the pot on 5th street.
B. Whose “four-card draw” is better? Definition of a “four-card draw”: Take away the highest-ranking card from the player with the leading hand, and these four cards are his “four-card draw.” Assume that his hole cards help
and don't hurt his hand. Of course, the player whose hand is behind will use his best four cards to establish his “four-card draw,” or simply his draw. Action: If the player in the lead also has the better “four-card draw,” he is a big favorite. He should bet and his opponent should fold. If the player who is behind has the better “four-card draw,” he will either be a small underdog or a small favorite. When he is a dog, he should call and check his hand. When he is a small favorite, he should jam the pot.
Here are some common situations you will face on 5th street and how this system is put into action: 1. You hit a bad card on 5th street: Example: You have (4-5) 7,9,10 and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9. Situation: You started the hand with three good cards, but fell behind on 4thstreet. On 5th street, both you and your opponent hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent looks to have a made hand with a 9 low, and a better “four-card draw” than you with an 8-6 to your 9-7. This means he is a big favorite. Action: When he bets, fold. Don't chase. Don't be the azz in Razz.
Example:
You have (4-5) 7,8,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,10. Situation: You started the hand with three good cards. You and your opponent hit the same card on 4thstreet, so you decided to see one more card. Unfortunately, the 5 th street card was bad for you. Analysis: Your opponent looks to have a 10 low, made hand and a better “four-card draw” with 8-7 to 8-6. It looks close, but it’s not. Action: When he bets, don't chase. Fold. Don't be the azz in Razz.
Example:
You have (A-4) 5,J,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 6,K,7. Situation: Here you started with three cards to a bike. On 4th street, both you and your opponent hit bad. On 5thstreet, you hit bad again, while your opponent hit a good card. Analysis: Your opponent has four cards working to a good low, while you only have three cards working. This is an awful situation for you, since it puts you way behind in the hand. Action: Check and if he bets, fold. Don't chase. Don't be the azz in Razz.
Example:
You have (4-6) A-9-J and your opponent has (x-x) 8-4-10. Situation: You started with three good cards, but fell behind on 4thstreet. Your opponent bet, and you called on 4thstreet. On 5th street you both hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 10 low, and has a better “four-card draw.” Action: If your opponent bets, fold. Don't chase. Don't be the azz in Razz.
2. You hit a good card on 5th street Example: You have (4-8) 6,2,4 and your opponent has (x-x) A,J,9. Situation: You started with three good cards, and improved on 4thstreet. When you bet on 4thstreet, your opponent called your bet since he had a strong draw. On 5thstreet, you hit good and he hit bad. Analysis: This is sweet when it happens. You are in the lead and you have the best draw. Action: Bet and your opponent should fold.
Example:
You have (A-3) 7,2,4 and your opponent has (x-x) A,8,6. Situation: You started with a good low, and you took the lead on 4thstreet. On 5thstreet, both you and your opponent hit good cards, but you are in the lead. Analysis: Here you both look to have made hands. You have a 7-4 and your opponent an 8-6. You even have a better “fourcard draw” with your 4-3 to his 6-x. Action: Bet and your opponent should fold. A trickier play is to slow-play the hand, and check it. The check may look like you paired your hole card. If so, your opponent will want to protect his lead and bet. While this play puts you at risk of losing since he can catch up, you'll win a bigger pot than if you simply bet out on 5th street.
You have (A-2) 5,A,3 and your opponent has (x-x) 6,7,10. Situation: This is the example mentioned in the chapter on 4th street. You started with three strong cards, but paired your A in the hole on 4thstreet. You checked on 4 thstreet and called when your opponent bet. On 5thstreet, you have a bike draw, while your opponent has a 10 low. Analysis: You have a draw to the best possible low and your opponent probably has a made hand with a 10 low. You are at least a 58% favorite. Action: Jam the pot.
3. You paired up on 5th street Example: You have (4-8) 6,2,4 and your opponent has (x-x) A,6, J. Situation: You started with a good low, and improved on 4th street. However, your opponent also got help on 4thstreet. When he bet on 4thstreet, you called. On 5thstreet, you paired up one of your hole cards, while your opponent hit bad. Analysis: Pairs are bad news in Razz poker. However, the pair is hidden, which means you have the “visible” lead. Your opponent, though, has a better draw with his 6-A to your 6-4. Action: Usually when you have the “visible” lead, you
should bet as a bluff. But, since he led with a bet on 4th street, he is not going to fold. In this situation, your opponent is actually both in the lead and has a better “four-card draw.” Therefore, your best play is to check and your opponent will most likely check behind with his J low. Save your money and see what happens on 6th street.
Example:
You have (A-2) 5,A,2 and your opponent has (x-x) 4,7,8. Situation: You started with three strong cards, but paired your A in the hole on 4 thstreet. You bet on 4thstreet and your opponent called. On 5thstreet, you paired up again, and your opponent hit a good card. Analysis: Bummer. You made two pair. However, you have the “visible” lead and your board looks so strong you may actually have a bike or 6 low. Your opponent is going to fear your board. Action: You have the “visible” lead, and even a better “visible” “four-card draw.” Plus, your board is so strong it looks like you have a bike. Bet this hand as a semi-bluff. Your opponent is going to fold, unless he has an incredible read on your play.
You have (4-7) A,6,6 and your opponent has (x-x) 4,7,8. Situation: You started with three good cards, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. When you bet on 4thstreet, your opponent called. On 5thstreet you paired up one of your exposed cards, while your opponent hit good. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a made low of 8-7. He also may have a better “four-card draw” with a 7-4 to your 7-6. An exposed pair hurts your hand more than a hidden pair, since you have no opportunity to bluff with a bet. Action: You can get into a lot of trouble in this hand. When he bets, just fold. Example: You have (6-7) A,6,7 and your opponent has (x-x) 4,7,8. Situation: You started with three good cards, paired your hole card on 4thstreet. When you bet on 4thstreet, your opponent called. On 5thstreet you paired up again, while your opponent hit good. Analysis: You are in the “visible” lead with your 7-6 to your opponent's 8-7. You also have a better “visible” “four-card draw.” While your opponent may be weary that you have a made low of 7-6, it is not as scary as
a made bike hand. Action: You can get into a lot of trouble in this hand. If you bet on 5thstreet, it's a bluff. And, most likely, your opponent is going to call. It looks like you are going to end up losing a lot of money so don't bet your hand. If he bets, just fold. Or, if you read that your opponent is weak, check-raise bluff; this bet will say you have a 7-6 made low hand, and he will only call your bet if he can outdraw you.
2. It is NOT true that any drawing hand is a favorite over a made 9 low hand, and therefore the player with the draw should jam the pot. Here are guidelines as to how a made hand of a 9 low compares to drawing hands: a) The player with a made low of 9-8, is a slight underdog to a player who has any 7, 6, or 5 low draw, but a big favorite over an opponent with any 8 low draw. b) The player with a made low of 9-7, is a slight underdog to a player who has any 5 low draw, but a big favorite over an opponent with any 8 low draw. Against a player with a 7 or 6 low, the results vary depending upon the cards each player holds. c) The player with a made low of 9-6, is a slight favorite over a player who has any 7, 6, or 5 low draw, and a big favorite over an opponent with any 8 low draw. d) The player with a made low of 9-5, is a slight favorite over a player who has any 5 or 4 low draw, and a big favorite over an opponent with any 8, 7 or 6 low draw. e) The player with a made low of 9-4, is a big favorite over an opponent with any 8, 7, 6, or 5 low draw, and a slight favorite over an opponent with a 4 low draw.
Here are some common situations with a made 9 low hand: Example:
You have a (A-3) 4,7,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9. Situation: You started with a good hand, and both you and your opponent hit good cards on 4thstreet. When you bet on 4thstreet, your opponent called. On 5thstreet, he hit good and you hit bad. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 9-8 low hand, but you have a better “four-card draw” with a 74. Based on the strength of your draw, you are the favorite to win the hand. Action: Jam the pot. You are the favorite and want to take advantage of your edge.
You have a (5-A) 4,7,Q and your opponent shows (x-x) 4,7,9. Situation: You started with a good hand, and both you and your opponent hit good cards on 4thstreet. On 5thstreet, your opponent hit good and you hit bad. Analysis: Your opponent has the leading hand with a 9-7 low made hand. You both have the same “fourcard draw” with a 7-4. It is not clear who is the favorite, so you need to be cautious. Action: Just call his bet, and see what develops on 6th street.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 5,6,9. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent called your bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 9-6 low made hand, but you have a better “four-card draw.” Action: When he bets, just call. He is a slight favorite despite your bike draw.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,6,Q and your opponent has (x-x) 4,5,9. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent a good card on 4thstreet, and you called his bet. On 5thstreet, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 9-5 low made hand, and he has a better low “four-card draw” than you with a 5-4 against your 6-3. Action: It depends. A fold is a play that will keep you out of trouble. You need a good read on your opponent, because he could have a worse “four-card draw” than you. Given the pot odds, a call in this situation is an acceptable play to see what happens on 6th street.
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J and your opponent has (xx) 3,4,9. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent hit a better card. He bet and you called his bet on 4thstreet. On 5thstreet, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 9-4 low made hand, and he may also have a better “fourcard draw.” Action: With a bike draw, and the good pot odds, you should call his bet. See what develops on 6th street.
3. The player with a made 8 low is a favorite to any drawing hand. Therefore, the player who has the drawing hand should never jam the pot on 5th street.
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J and your opponent has (xx) 3,8,6. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent called your bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with an 8-6 low made hand. But, you have the better “four-card draw” with a 5-2 to your opponent's 6-3. Action: When your opponent bets, you should call.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,7,J and your opponent has (xx) 3,8,6. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent called your bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with an 8-6 low made Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with an 8-6 low made 3 to your 7-3. Action: It depends. A fold is a play that will keep you out of trouble. You need a good read on your opponent, because he could have a worse “four-card draw” than you. Given the pot odds, a call in this situation is an acceptable play to see what happens on 6thstreet. But, you should make your decision on what happens on 6th street.
4. The player with a made 10 low is an underdog to a drawing hand to a 7 low. Example:
You have a (4-6) 7,3,J and your opponent has (xx) 3,8,10. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent called your bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 10-8 low made hand. But, you have the better “four-card draw” with a 7-6 to your opponent's 8-3. Action: When your opponent bets, you should jam the pot as you are a slight favorite to win the pot.
5. When you are in the lead on 5th street, consider a check-raise when your opponent is aggressive. Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,6,7 and your opponent has (xx) 3,8,6. Situation: You started with a strong hand, and hit a good card on 4thstreet. Your opponent called your bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit a better card than you. Analysis: You are in the lead, and your opponent may have a made hand with an 8 low. You can bet or try to make it look like you paired up by checking. When your opponent bets, you check-raise signaling that you are in the lead. Action: If your opponent is aggressive, try to use it against him by checking and then raising his bet.
6. A raise on 5 th street when you have a draw against what looks like a made 9 hand can be advantageous. First, your opponent may not have made a 9 low. Second, if you hit a good card on 6thstreet, your opponent may fold to your bet. Third, it may get you a free card on 6th street.
6th Street Play It Usually Pays to Stay Once you've made your decision on how to play on 5thstreet, 6thstreet almost plays itself...almost. If you are in the lead, you are going to want to make your opponent pay to continue to chase. If you are behind, and still think you will win if you hit your draw, it pays to continue to 7thstreet with the right pot odds. Of course, if your opponent has you drawing dead, it's time to fold.
1. If you are still in the lead on 6th street, bet and try to get your opponent to fold. Example:
You have (A-5) 8,7,6,J and your opponent has (xx) A,3,9,K. Situation: You had a good starting hand, fell behind on 4th street but decided to call to see 5thstreet. On 5thstreet, you took the lead, bet and your opponent called. On 6thstreet, you both hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent wouldn't have called your bet on 5th street without a strong draw. You are still in the lead, and don't want him to catch up. Action: Bet your hand.
2. If you are not sure if you are still in the lead on 6th street, you should check. If your opponent bets, and you can still outdraw him, look at the pot odds. If the pot is giving you about 7-1 odds, you should call his bet. (In most cases, you will have the right odds to call his bet.) Example:
You have (3-2) 8,A,6,K and your opponent has (xx) 6,7,J,5. Situation: You had a good starting hand, fell behind on 4th, but was called by your opponent when you bet your made 8-6 low. On 6 th street, he hit good and you hit bad. Analysis: You know that your opponent wouldn't have made a call to your bet on 5thstreet without a draw to a 7. The 5 on 6th street now puts you behind in the hand, but you could outdraw your opponent on 7th street. Action: When you go to 7thstreet needing to hit your hand to win, you usually have about a 15% chance to win. Therefore, when he bets his hand, if the pot is giving you about 7-1 odds call his bet.
You have (3-2) 5,7,6,J and your opponent has (xx) 6,4,J,3. Situation: You had a good starting hand, fell behind on 4th, but was called by your opponent when you bet your made 7-6 low. On 6 th street, he hit good and you hit bad. Analysis: You know that your opponent wouldn't have made a call to your bet on 5thstreet without a draw to a 6 or possibly a 7 low. So, that 3 on 6 thstreet for your opponent may have you drawing dead as the best low hand you can get is a 6-5. Action: You can't be sure where you are on this hand. Folding is a safe play, but you may actually be in the lead if he has a 7-5 as his hole cards or paired up. You should call.
3. If your opponent hit his card on 6th street, and it looks reasonably certain that you are drawing dead, fold.
You have (3-7) 6,8,7,Q and your opponent has (xx) A,2,J,5. Situation: You had a good starting hand, and decided to call your opponent's bet on 4thstreet with your 8-7 low draw. On 5 thstreet you took the “visible” lead, but your opponent called your bet. When he called your bet, he had a draw that could beat an 8 low. On 6 thstreet your opponent hits a good card and you hit a bad card. Analysis: You have a draw to an 8 low, but your opponent probably has hit his 7 low. Action: When your opponent bets his hand, you should fold.
Example:
You have (3-7) 6,8,Q,Q and your opponent has (x-x) A,7,J,5. Situation: You had a good starting hand, and decided to call your opponent's bet on 4thstreet with your 8-6 low draw. On 5 thstreet you both hit bad cards. You both checked. On 6 th street your opponent hit a good card and you hit a bad card. Analysis: You have a draw to an 8 low, but your opponent probably has made his 7 low. Action: When your opponent bets his hand, you should fold as you may be drawing dead.
4. If you had the best “four-card draw” on 5th street, and missed, the pot odds will usually be big enough for you to chase if you still can outdraw your opponent. Example:
You have (A-2) 3,4,8,K and your opponent has (xx) 6,7,3,5. Situation: You had a good starting hand, had the lead on 4th street, but fell behind on 5thstreet. You called your opponent's bet on 5thstreet since you had a bike draw. On 6thstreet your opponent looks to have a made hand with a 7-6 low. Analysis: You are behind in the hand, but can win if you hit the right card. Action: When you go to 7thstreet needing to hit your hand to win against a made low hand, you usually
have about a 15% chance to win. Therefore, when your opponent bets his hand, if the pot is giving you about 7-1 odds call his bet.
Example:
You have (4-6) 3,A,9,K and your opponent has (xx) 6,7,5,A. Situation: You had a good starting hand, had the lead on 4th street, but fell behind on 5thstreet. You called your opponent's bet on 5thstreet since you had the better “four-card draw” with your 6-4 to his 65. On 6thstreet your opponent hit good, and you hit bad. Analysis: You are behind in the hand, but can win if you hit the right card. Action: When you go to 7thstreet needing to hit your hand to win, you usually have around a 15% chance to win. Therefore, when your opponent bets his hand, if the pot is giving you about 7-1 odds call his bet.
5. If you missed your draw on 6th street, you need to determine if you are now drawing dead. If you are drawing dead, fold. If you think you can outdraw your opponent, call his bet if the pot is giving you 7-1 odds.
You have (A-2) 6,8,Q,K and your opponent has (x-x) 4,7,9,A. Situation: You had a good starting hand, but were still behind on 5thstreet. You called your opponent's bet on 5thstreet since you had an 86 draw against the 9-7 made hand. On 6thstreet your opponent hit good, and you hit bad. Analysis: Now, your opponent may have a made 7 low hand, and if so, you are drawing dead. Action: If you think you are drawing dead, fold to his bet. If not, call his bet given the pot odds.
Here are some examples on how to play on 6th street: 1. You hit a bad card on 6 th street: Example:
You have (4-5) 7,9,10,K and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9,K. Situation: You should have folded this hand on 5thstreet, but you decided to go to 6th street. Both you and your opponent hit a bad card on 6th street. Analysis: You have one more shot at winning the hand, and the odds are probably close to 4-1. Once you called on 5thstreet, you might as well go to the river. Action: Call the bet, and hope to get lucky.
Example:
You have (4-5) 7,9,10,K and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9,4. Situation: You should have folded this hand on 5thstreet, but decided to go to 6thstreet. You hit bad and your opponent hit a good card on 6th street. Analysis: If your opponent has what he's representing, you are drawing dead. Action: Fold when he bets. If he checks, just check as he is simply trying to suck you into a bet on 7th street.
You have (4-8) 6,2,4,Q and your opponent has (xx) A,6,J,J Situation: Your opponent checked behind you on 5thstreet, since he was not sure if you were trying to trap him. On 6th street, you and your opponent hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent may actually be the favorite to win the pot, but now he is thinking he is on a one card draw. Action: Bet, since you want to take the pot down now.
Example:
You have (4-8) 6,2,4,Q and your opponent has (xx) A,6,J, 8 Situation: Your opponent checked behind you on 5thstreet, since he was not sure if you were trying to trap him. On 6th street, you hit bad and your opponent hit a good card. Analysis: Your opponent may think you have the better hand, but will not fold to a bet here. Action: Check and try to get a free card. If he bets, you should fold.
Example:
You have (A-3) 7,2,4,K and your opponent has (xx) A,8,6,5. Situation: You bet on 5 thstreet since you had the lead and your opponent called. Analysis: You hit bad and your opponent hit a good card on 6th street. Your opponent either has made an 8 or 6 low. In either case, you have a draw to a bike on 7th street. Action: If your opponent bets, just call. If your opponent checks, you should bet. It’s rare that a player will try to trap you on 6thstreet. Even if he has a 6 low, you are getting the right odds to get lucky on 7th street.
You have a (A-3) 4,7,Q, J and your opponent has
(x-x) 6,8,9,K. Situation: You jammed the pot with your 7-4 draw, against his 9-8 made hand on 5 thstreet. On 6thstreet, you both hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a 9-8 low hand, but you still can win if you hit your draw. You jammed the pot on 5thstreet, which committed you to go all the way to 7thstreet. You are 2-1 at winning the hand, and the pot is giving you a lot more than that. Action: When your opponent bets, just call.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,K and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,Q. Situation: On 5thstreet your opponent bet his hand and you called. On 6th street, you both hit bad cards. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with his 8-6. It doesn't matter since you have the bike draw and the right pot odds to call. Action: When your opponent bets, just call.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,7,J, K and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,5. Situation: On 5thstreet when your opponent bet, you decided to call. On 6th street, he hit a good card and you hit a bad card. Analysis: Your opponent is in the lead with a made 8-5 or possibly a 6-5 low hand. You are hoping for a 7 low. Your call on 5th street was a marginal one. Action: When your opponent bets, you should fold. You could be drawing dead.
2. You hit a good card on 6th street:
You have (4-5) 7,9,10, A and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9,K. Situation: You should have folded this
hand on 5thstreet, but decided to go to 6thstreet. You hit a good card on 6thstreet, and your opponent hit bad. Analysis: You now have the lead on 6 thstreet with a 9-7 made hand. Your opponent knows he has to beat that hand, and will call if he has a draw to an 8 low since he is about 3-1 and the pot will be offering much better odds. Action: Bet.
Example:
You have (A-4) 5,J,Q,8 and your opponent has (xx) 6,K,7,Q. Situation: You checked on 5 thstreet, and your opponent bet. You called. Analysis: You were going to fold this hand, but you decided to try to get lucky. On 6 th street, you hit good, and your opponent hit bad. This looks like a coin-flip now. Action: Check and call if he bets. It's worth seeing one last card.
Example:
You have (A-3) 7,2,4,5 and your opponent has (xx) A,8,6,5. Situation: You bet on 5 thstreet since you had the lead and your opponent called. Analysis: You both hit good cards on 6 thstreet, and for you it gives you a bike. Your opponent may have a 6 low, and will be reluctant to let that hand go. Action: Bet, as your opponent will call. Or, go for a checkraise.
>--> You have (4-6) A,9,J,2 and your opponent has (xx) 8,4,6,5. Situation: You called on 5 thstreet when your opponent bet, hoping to hit your 9 low draw. On 6thstreet, you hit a good card, as did your opponent. Analysis: You hit your draw to a 6 low, but your opponent is in the lead with an 8 low. You can't be sure you have a better draw than your opponent. And, even if you hit a 3, you may lose the pot. Action: When your opponent bets, you need to consider the pot odds. If the pot odds are 9-1, you should call. If not, fold.
Example:
You have a (5-A) 4,7,Q,8 and your opponent
shows (x-x) 4,7,9, J. Situation: You called your opponent's bet on 4thstreet. On 5th street, your opponent hit bad but you hit a good card. Analysis: You hit your draw, which puts you in the lead. If your opponent can't outdraw you, he will fold. But, most likely, he will call your bet. Action: When your opponent checks, bet your hand, and see what he does.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,Q,8 and your opponent has (x-x) 5,6,9,7. Situation: You just called your opponent's bet on 5thstreet, since you are a slight dog. On 6thstreet, you hit a low card, as did your opponent. Analysis: It's unclear how strong your opponent's hand is now. When he bets, you are probably looking at beating a 7-6. With a bike draw, you have to call. If he checks his hand, you can take the free card. Action: Your opponent bet. Call his bet. Even if he has the 7-6 low, you are getting the right pot odds.
You have a (A-3) 2,6,Q,4 and your opponent has (x-x) 4,5,9,3. Situation: On 5th street, when your opponent bet you called his bet. On 6th street, you both hit good cards. Analysis: You have a 6-4 made low hand. Your opponent could already have a bike. If he bets into you, you need to call. If he checks, you don't want to be check-raised, so check behind him. Action: Your opponent bets. You have to call on 6thstreet, and it's going to be automatic call on 7thstreet with your 6-4 low. If your opponent has the bike, that's just the way it goes.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J, 8 and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6, Q. Situation: On 5thstreet your opponent bet his hand and you called. On 6thstreet, you hit good and your opponent hit a bad card. Analysis: You are in the lead with a made 8-5 low. Your opponent may be able to pass you on 7 th street. Action: Bet your hand.
3. You paired up on 6th street: Example:
You have (4-8) 6,2,4, 8 and your opponent has (xx) A,6, J, J Situation: Your opponent checked behind you on 5thstreet, since he was not sure if you were
trying to trap him. On 6th street, you hit an 8, and your opponent paired his J. Analysis: Your exposed cards give you a strong board, despite having two pairs. Action: Bet, since you want to take the pot down now.
You have (4-7) A,6,6,4 and your opponent has (xx) 4,7,8,J. Situation: You decided to call your opponent's bet on 5thstreet, since you liked your draw. On 6 thstreet, you hit a 4 and your opponent hit a J. Analysis: You now have two pairs, while your opponent has a made low of 8-7. It looks like you could have a 6-4 made hand, so your opponent will probably check. Action: If your opponent bets, fold. If he checks, take the free card.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,J and your opponent has (x-x) 3,4,9,4. Situation: On 5thstreet your opponent bet and you called with your bike draw. On 6 thstreet, you both paired up your exposed cards. Analysis: Your opponent is still in the lead with a 9-4 low made hand, and is going to bet his hand. Notice that he has two of the 4's you need to make your bike. Fortunately, you don't the 4's you need to make your bike. Fortunately, you don't 1. Action: Your opponent bets, and you call.
6th Street Play Advanced Concepts Here are some advanced concepts that may come in handy as you work on your Razz poker game.
1. The chances of hitting that one “perfect” card you need to outdraw your opponent on 7th street: · If all 4 suits of that card are live=12% · If only 3 suits of that card are live=9% · If only 2 suits of that card are live=6% · If only 1 suit of that card is live=3% This is important for making the right decision on 6thstreet, since you need to compare those odds to the odds of hitting that perfect card on 7thstreet. And, if you expect to be paid off when you hit that “perfect” card on 7thstreet, your implied odds are better: that is, the additional money you will win when your opponent calls you down.
2. When both you and your opponent's hands turn into mediocre lows on 6th street, you often want to check on 6th street rather than risk losing two bets. Example:
You have (4-6) 3,7,10,10 and your opponent has
(x-x) 2,3,J,K. Situation: You had the lead on 5 thstreet and bet your hand. Your opponent called your bet, and you both hit bad on 6th street. On 6th street he checks to you. Analysis: You opponent called you on 5 thstreet since he was hoping to hit his draw; it’s a draw that looks to be a 6 or 5 low. If you bet here, your opponent will call. In fact, he is only a slight underdog given your 10 low. On 7 thstreet, he will check and call if he hits a 7,8,9 or maybe even a 10. If he hits a 5 or 6, he will probably bet or check-raise your bet. If you check your mediocre low on 6thstreet, your opponent will bet with a 5,6,7, or 8 low. You will have to call this bet, even if you improve. If he checks, you will bet if you hit your 7 low, and he will have to call with his 9, 10 or even a Jack low. Therefore, if you bet, you are risking two bets with a mediocre low. If you check, you are risking just one bet — which may allow you to win that same one bet from your opponent. Action: Check your mediocre low on 6 th street.
Example:
You have (4-8) 3,7,Q,10 and your opponent has (x-x) A,6,J,K. Situation: Your opponent was leading on 5thstreet and bet his J low. You called. On 6 th
street, you hit a 10 and he hit a K. Analysis: You and your opponent both have mediocre lows. You have a 10 low and your opponent has a J low. If you bet on 6th street, he will call your hand. He is only a slight dog. By betting on 6thstreet you are risking losing two bets. While you are leading on 6thstreet, by checking you are risking less and most likely, winning the same number of bets. Action: Check your hand.
3. When both you and your opponent's hands turn into poor lows on 6th street, it is okay to check and call when you are behind since the pot odds are usually right. Example:
You have (4-7) A,J,Q,K and your opponent has (x-x) 6,10,Q,Q. Situation: Your opponent bet on 5thstreet, hoping you would fold your Q-J to his Q-10. You called, and on 6 thstreet, neither you nor your opponent improved. Analysis: You need to check this hand, and if your opponent bets on 6thstreet, the pot odds will require you to call his bet. You are probably 4-1 to win this hand, and the pot odds are probably better. Action: Check and call your opponent's bet.
4. Raising your opponent on 6th street when
three of your exposed cards are stronger than your opponent's exposed three cards is an advanced play that gives you an opportunity to win more bets, without costing you more. Example:
You have (8-2) A,6,J,5 and your opponent has (xx) 7,6,10,5. Situation: You lost the lead on 5 thstreet. On 6thstreet, your opponent shows a 7-6 and acts first with a bet. You have a made low of 8-6 and your opponent may have you beat with his 7-6 made low. Analysis: When he bets, you can call and hope to hit a good card to make a 6 low on 7thstreet. Or, if you raise, he may fold to you if he has paired up, and if not, he will check to you on 7thstreet. If you hit your 6 low, you will most likely win another bet on 7 th street. If not, you lose the same two bets. Action: Raise.
7thStreet When in doubt, call! In most cases, once you've reached 7thstreet you are committed to the hand. Why? Your opponent may have paired up once, twice or three times in the hand. Or, maybe your opponent is bluffing. Or, maybe you have the better hand. On 7thstreet, if you have any shot at winning the pot, call your opponent's bet. Remember this: To lose one bet is acceptable, but to lose the entire pot for that one bet is just wrong.
1. When you act first on 7th street, you need to determine whether to bet or check-raise, and check-call or check-fold. Bet or check-raise: If you believe you are ahead, bet your hand. However, if you believe your opponent will bet his hand when you check, go for the checkraise if you have a strong hand.
Example:
You have (A-3) 2,9,4,5 (J) and your opponent has (x-x) A,10,6,5 (x) Situation: You have a bike and your opponent called your bet on 5th and 6th streets. Analysis: If you bet, your opponent will call you if he hit a 6, 7 or maybe even an 8 low, but most likely fold any other hand. So, you win one bet. But, if you check, your opponent will bet his 6, 7 and maybe
even 8 low, and you can check-raise. When you check-raise, he will most likely call you, especially if he hit his 6 low. So, if you check-raise you have an opportunity to win two bets instead of one. Action: Check, with the hope of check-raising.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 4,7,Q, J (5) and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9,K (x). Situation: You hit a great card on 7 thstreet, as you now have a 7-5 low. Analysis: If your opponent has a 9 low, he will check fearing you hit your draw. If he has an 8 low, he may or not bet. Since you have the winning hand, and your opponent may not bet, you must bet your hand. Action: Bet, as your opponent will most likely call you with his 8 or 9 low. Check-call or check-fold: When you check your hand in these situations, you are hoping to see the cards on 7thstreet without a bet. When your opponent bets after you check, if you have a shot at winning you need to call the bet given the pot odds. Only fold when you absolutely, positively know you are beat.
You have a (A-3) 4,7,Q,J (J) and your opponent has (x-x) 6,8,9,K (x). Situation: You jammed the pot with your 7-4 draw against his made 9-8 low hand on 5thstreet since you were a statistical favorite. On 6th street, you both hit bad cards. Analysis: You missed your draw on 7 thstreet. Brickbrickbrick...it's what makes Razz a pain in the azz. Action: Check your hand. If your opponent bets, just fold.
Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,8 (K) and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,Q (x). Situation: You were in the lead on 6 thstreet, so you bet your hand. You didn't improve on 7 thstreet, but still have a nice 8-5 low.
Analysis: If you bet and your opponent didn't hit his 8 low, he will fold. If he improved, he will call. If you check, you may induce a bluff, or he may have you beat with a 6 low. Action: Check your hand, and call if he bets.
2. When you act second on 7th street, you are reacting to your opponent's action. If he bets, you can fold, call or raise. If he checks, you can check or bet. Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,K (Q) and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,Q (x). Situation: You called hoping to hit your bike. Instead you have a J low. Analysis: It is almost certain your opponent has you beat, and will come out betting. When he bets, you can fold being almost certain he has better than a J low. But, even in this situation, a call is not an awful play Action: When your opponent bets, fold.
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,K (9) and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,Q (x). Situation: Here you end up with a 9 low. Analysis: Your opponent has been betting on 5 thand 6thstreet, so you are fairly certain he has an 8 low. However, marginal calls are acceptable plays in Razz poker since the pot is usually big on 7th street. Action: When your opponent bets, call his bet and hope for the best. If your opponent checks his hand, check it down.
Example:
3,8,6,Q (x). Situation: Here you end up with a 7 low. Analysis: Your opponent checks his hand, and you have to decide to check or to bet. In this case, when he checks you should bet, as he would bet his 6 low. He may be trapping you, but he has to be concerned
that you have a monster since you called him when you hit bad on 5th and 6th street. Action: When your opponent checks, bet your hand. He will have to call your bet with an 8 low, or fold if he missed. Example:
You have a (A-3) 2,5,J,K (6) and your opponent has (x-x) 3,8,6,Q (x). Situation: Here you end up with a 6 low. Analysis: Your opponent bets his hand, which could mean he is bluffing, or has an 8 low, or maybe even a 6 low. Given these different outcomes, you should raise with your 6-5 low. Action: He bets, and you raise. If he re-raises, you'll call. If he just calls, you probably won.
3. If there is any chance your opponent's bet on the end is a bluff, you must call.
9-J (x). Situation: You called on 6 thstreet hoping to outdraw your opponent. Analysis: Your opponent bets his hand. Since he wouldn't bet a 9 low, it seems he has an 8 low. He is acting like he doesn't fear your draw, which means he may be bluffing. Giving the pot size on 7th street, you are going to have to call. Action: When he bets, call and hope he is bluffing.
4. Players tend to avoid betting on the end when they only have a 9 low and the opponent shows two low cards on the board. They fear their opponent has outdrawn them on 7th street. Example:
You have (2-3) A,8,Q,K (x) and your opponent has (x-x) 7,8,9,J (x). Situation: You called on 6 thstreet hoping to outdraw your opponent. Analysis: Your opponent checks his hand since he has a 9 low and is afraid you hit your draw. Action: If you can beat a 9, bet your hand.
5. When the pot has gotten big on 7th street, if there is any chance of a bluff working when you miss, bet. The pot is so big on 7th street, if you had the lead and have been betting throughout the hand, you must bet again on the end and hope your opponent folds.
Example:
You have (4-8) 6,2,4, 8 (8) and your opponent has (x-x) A,6, J, J (x) Situation: Your opponent checked behind you on 5thstreet, since he was not sure if you were trying to trap him. On 6th street, you bet and your opponent called your bet. Analysis: You have a full house and have no chance of winning this hand. However, you have a strong board and your opponent will fold if he hit bad on 7th street. Action: Bet, and unless your opponent hit a good card, you will win the pot. In this last hand, if you were “the opponent” and had a J low, would you call the bet on the end?
Strategies into Action: Actual Play on Full Tilt Poker The game is $5/$10 limit Razz poker. I recommend playing with a buy-in of 20 times the big blind. The antes are $1 and the bring-in bet is $1.50. While you can follow every hand, to make it easier I highlighted in bold the hands I played. *********** # 38 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571448143: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:26:01 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 9 8 2 8 4 T J 6 Me: (10-2) 8. I fold after there is a raise and re-raise. $199. *********** # 39 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571458291: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:26:59 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 2 3 3 5 8 8 4 Me: (10-10) 3. I fold. $198 *********** # 40 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571465242: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:27:38 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: Q A 10 7 8 2 Q Me: (2-8) A. The Q to my left brings it in. I have 6 points plus 2 duplicates, minus 1 card needed, minus 3 low card behind me. Total 4 points. Acting first in the hand, I raise. I get two callers. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (2-8) A,5 Opponent A: (x-x) 8,5 Opponent B: (x-x) 2,K I’m in the lead and bet. Both players call. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (2-8) A,5,2 Opponent A: (x-x) 8,5,5 Opponent B: (x-x) 2,K,K
We all pair up on 5th street. But, I’m in the “visible” lead. I bet and both opponents fold. $230 *********** # 42 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571483750: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:29:22 ET 2007/12/20 Board: K 2 4 7 4 A 5 Me: (7-Q) 2. I fold, after there is a raise of the bringin bet. $229 *********** # 43 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571489293: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:29:53 ET 2007/12/20 Board 7 J 7 J 3 5 2 J Me: (2-3) J. I fold after the player with the 2 calls the bring-in bet. FullTiltPoker Game #4571494634: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:30:23 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 3 9 7 8 3 K 3 K Me (J-4) 9. I fold after the player with the 3 raises. $227 *********** # 45 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571499755: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:30:52 ET 2007/12/20 Board 2 9 K 3 10 9 5 Me: (3-10) 9. I fold after the player with the 3 calls the bringin bet. $226 *********** # 46 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571511176: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:31:58 ET 2007/12/20 Board 5 K J 3 K J 2 Me: (8-10) K. I’m the bring-in bettor. I get raised and fold. $223.50
*********** # 47 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571515490: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:32:23 ET 2007/12/20 Board Q 9 8 Q 3 10 J A Me: (5-6) 9. I fold after the player with the 3 raises. $222.50
FullTiltPoker Game #4571522560: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:33:04 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 7 5 9 Q 8 5 9 7 Me: (3-2) 5. The player with the Q brings it in. The player with the 7 calls. Another player with a 7 raises. I have 10 points plus 1 duplicate, and I caller and I raiser. Total points is 8 points, so I re-raise. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (3-2) 5,8 Opponent A: (x-x) 7,8 Opponent B: (x-x) 7,Q I’m in the lead and bet. Both players call. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (3-2) 5,8,6 Opponent A: (x-x) 7,8,A Opponent B: (x-x) 7,Q,A I’m in the lead and would like to have at most one opponent. I bet and only Player B calls. *** 6TH STREET *** Me: (3-2) 5,8,6,9 Opponent B: (x-x) 7,Q,A,7 I bet expecting my opponent to fold. He calls. *** 7TH STREET *** Me: (3-2) 5,8,6,9,7 Opponent B: (x-x) 7,Q,A,7 (x) My only hope to win more is if my opponent made a 7 low, or decides to bluff. I check and he checks. He mucks as I have a 7-6 low. FullTiltPoker Game #4571539392: Table Hollywood
- $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:34:42 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 8 5 9 K 6 7 10 K Me: (5-Q) 5. I fold to a raise. $277 *********** # 50 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571545068: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:35:14 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 7 9 8 7 2 3 Me: (2-6) 7. The player to my left is sitting out. The player to my right brings it in, the player with the 7 calls, as does the player with the 3. I have 6 points plus 3 duplicates, minus 1 card needed, minus 2 callers. Total 6 points, so I raise. Both players call. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (2-6) 7,5 Opponent A: (x-x) 9,4 Opponent B: (x-x) 7,8 I’m in the lead and bet. Only Player B calls. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (2-6) 7,5,8 Opponent B: (x-x) 7,8,6 I’m in the lead. I bet and get called. Me: (2-6) 7,5,8,K Player B: (x-x) 7,8,6,2 My opponent is in the lead and bets. I decide to call since he limped into the pot, and may have a 9 low plus I may outdraw him, plus the pot odds were fairly good at over 6-1. *** 7TH STREET *** Me: (2-6) 7,5,8,K,J Player B: (x-x) 7,8,6,2 (x) My opponent bets. I decide to call with my 8 low. My opponent shows a 7-6 low. I lose. $236 *********** # 51 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571566355: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:37:16 ET -
2007/12/20 Board 8 A Q 3 9 5 4 Q Me: (A-K) 8. A player raises and I fold. $235 *********** # 52 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571571382: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:37:45 ET 2007/12/20 Board: J 10 7 9 A 4 6 Me (K-3) J. I’m the bring-in bettor, get raised and fold. FullTiltPoker Game #4571575987: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:38:11 ET - 2007/12/20 Board J 8 3 A 9 Q Me (Q-5) J. I fold. $231.50 *********** # 54 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571580185: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:38:36 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 9 J 3 4 4 Q Me: (A-5) 9. I fold to the player who raises showing a 3. $230.50 *********** # 55 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571585586: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:39:07 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 10 6 9 A Q 8 Q Me: (6-7) 10. The player with the Ace raises. I fold. $229.50 *********** # 56 ************** FullTiltPoker Game
#4571594194: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:39:57 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 7 3 J 2 Q 10 4 7 Me: (6-4) 3. The player to my left returns. The player with the Q brings-it in, and the 7 folds to me. I have 9 points plus 2 duplicates, minus 1 card needed, and 3 low cards behind me. Total points is 7 points, so I raise. The player with the 2 calls, Me: (6-4) 3,7 Player A: (x-x) 2,J I bet and he folds. $243 *********** # 57 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571600408: Table Hollywood
- $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:40:33 ET 2007/12/20 Board: J J 3 10 9 K 4 Me: (2-Q) J. I fold. $242 *********** # 58 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571606057: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:41:05 ET 2007/12/20 Board 10 7 4 A J 8 Q 9 Me: (J-Q) 7. I fold $241 *********** # 59 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571615337: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:42:00 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 7 Q 5 9 6 J 8 3 Me: (2-7) Q. I am the bring-in bettor. There are two callers. So, I have to see 4th street. I hit a pair on 4th and fold to a bet.
FullTiltPoker Game #4571621112: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:42:32 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: J 3 2 6 K J 4 9 Me: (6-5) 3. The K brings it in, and everyone folds to me. I have 9 points plus 2 duplicates, minus needing 2 card, and 2 low cards behind me. Total points is 7, so I raise. Everyone folds $247 *********** # 61 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571627559: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:43:10 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 10 6 8 Q J 8 7 5 Me: (K-2) 6. The Q brings-it in, and everyone folds to me. I have to get by one player to steal the blinds and I have one low card in the hole. I raise. The player with the 8 calls me. If I don’t hit good and my opponent hits bad, I’m folding. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (K-2) 6, 2 Opponent A: (x-x) 8, 3
I check. My opponent checks. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (K-2) 6,2,K Opponent A: (x-x) 8,3,J We both check. *** 6TH STREET *** Me: (K-2) 6,2,K,Q Opponent A: (x-x) 8,3,J,4 He bets and I fold. $241
FullTiltPoker Game #4571637256: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:44:05 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 7 4 9 2 5 4 8 7 Me: (6-3) 4. The player to my right brings it in, and the player with the 8 raises. I have 9 points plus one duplicate, minus 2 cards needed and minus 2 for the raiser. Total is 6 points. I re-raise, and my opponent calls. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (6-3) 4, 3 Opponent A: (x-x) 8, Q I have the “visible” lead and bet. My opponent folds. Given the re-raise, he should have called. $258.50 *********** # 63 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571643123: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:44:39 ET 2007/12/20 Board 7 A 3 5 9 6 A Q Me: (10-Q) 7. I fold. $257.50 *********** # 64 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571646824: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:45:00 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 10 3 6 J 8 4 5 8 Me: (7-9) 3. There are two callers before it gets to me. I have negative points. I fold. FullTiltPoker Game #4571656934: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:45:58 ET 2007/12/20 Board: Q 8 7 10 10 10 K
Me: (3-J) 8. The last King brings it in. I have to get by the player with the 7 to steal the pot. I decide to fold. Turns out everyone folds to the bring-in bettor. I hate when this happens. $255.50 *********** # 66 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571659846: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:46:15 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 3 A 10 K J 8 10 4 Me: (3-8) A. The last King brings it in. I have 6 points, plus 2 duplicates, minus one card needed and 2 low cards behind me. Total points is 5 points, so I raise. Everyone folds. $264. *********** # 67 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571663921: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:46:38 ET - 2007/12/20 Board 5 6 8 9 A 3 7 8 Me: (2-5) 6. The 9 brings it in, and the player with the 5 raises. I have 9 points, plus 2 duplicates, minus 1 card needed, and 1 player behind me. Total points is 9 points. I re-raise, and get called. Me: (2-5) 6,6 Opponent: (x-x) 5,6 My opponent bets. Since I re-raised, I’m getting pot odds to call and see another card. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (2-5) 6,6,2 Opponent: (x-x) 5,6,10 My opponent bets. I fold. $248 *********** # 68 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571672485: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:47:28 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 5 5 J 6 K 10 4 Me: (4-2) 5. The King brings it in, and the player with the 4 calls. I have 10 points, plus 3 duplicates, 1 player behind me, and 1 caller.
Total points is 11 points, so I raise. The player with the 6 showing re-raises. The callers fold, and I reraise again. I am heads-up. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (4-2) 5,7 Opponent: (x-x) 6,3 He has the lead and bets. I call. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (4-2) 5,7,3 Opponent: (x-x) 6,3,10 I have the lead and bet. He calls. Me: (4-2) 5,7,3,A Opponent: (x-x) 6,3,10,8 I bet when I see his 8 hit. I should have waited because I noticed I hit a wheel after I made the bet. I acted too fast. The right play may have been to check, and try to win more on the river. He folded. $285 *********** # 69 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571689627: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:49:06 ET 2007/12/20 Board 8 10 8 3 9 10 6 Me: (6-6) 10. I fold. I was not the bring-in bettor. $284. *********** # 70 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571701739: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:50:18 ET 2007/12/20 Board 4 7 7 5 J Me: (Q-K) 7. I fold.. Three players sat out. $283 *********** # 71 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571705428: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:50:39 ET 2007/12/20 Board K 9 Q 3 6 4 Me (9-2) 9. I fold. $282
FullTiltPoker Game #4571708707: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:50:59 ET - 2007/12/20
Board 4 9 4 2 2 8 6 Me: (2-6) 9. I have to bring it in. I get one caller. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (2-6) 9, 6 Opponent: (x-x) 2,8 He bet and I fold. $279.50 *********** # 73 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571713174: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:51:24 ET 2007/12/20 Board: K 9 J Q 3 9 4 Me: (J-3) 9. I fold $278.50 *********** # 74 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571716572: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:51:44 ET 2007/12/20 Board: Q 2 Q 3 3 A 4 Me: (6-9) 2. The bring-in bettor was the Q to my left. I had negative points. I fold. FullTiltPoker Game #4571725423: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:52:35 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 7 4 Q K 3 9 K Me: (8-6) 4. The K to my right brings it in. I raise as everyone folds to me. $284 *********** # 76 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571729143: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:52:57 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 2 6 Q Q 4 8 7 Me: (6-2) 6. I fold. $283 *********** # 77 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571732923: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:53:19 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 10 A J J K 10 5 Me: (10-5) A. The K brings it in, and gets called by the player with the 5. I fold. $282 *********** # 78 **************
FullTiltPoker
Game
#4571740090:
Table
Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:54:01 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: J 7 8 2 8 4 9 2 Me: (4-A) 7. The J to my left brings-it in. I have 8 points, plus one duplicate, minus 2 cards needed on board. Me: (4-A) 7,2 Opponent: (x-x) 4,3 He bets and I call. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (4-A) 7,2,6 Opponent: (x-x) 4,3,9 I bet and he calls. *** 6TH STREET *** Me: (4-A) 7,2,6,Q Opponent: (x-x) 4,3,9,Q I bet and he calls. *** 7TH STREET *** Me: (4-A) 7,2,6,Q, (3) Opponent: (x-x) 4,3,9,Q (x) I bet and he calls. He mucks when I show the 6 low. $327.50 *********** # 79 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571757331: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:55:42 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 10 4 5 K 9 6 7 8 Me: (3-Q) 4. I fold, after the player with the 6 showing raises. $326.50 *********** # 80 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571761972: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 23:56:09 ET - 2007/12/20 Board K A 4 2 8 J 2 J Me (A-A) A. First time I’ve ever gotten rolled up Aces! I fold.
FullTiltPoker Game #4571769299: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:56:53 ET - 2007/12/20 Board 10 4 Q 9 8 7 8 9 Me: (9-6) 4. The Q is the bring-in bettor, and gets called by the second player with the 8 showing. I decide to call given the favorable pot odds. *** 4TH STREET *** Me: (9-6) 4,5
Opponent A: (x-x) Q,K Opponent B: (x-x) 8,7 I bet with the “visible” lead. Both players fold. $335.50 *********** # 82 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571778686: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:57:48 ET 2007/12/20 Board: 3 10 8 6 2 J 9 Me: (10-5) 10. I fold. $334.50 *********** # 83 **************
FullTiltPoker Game #4571783603: Table Hollywood $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz 23:58:17 ET - 2007/12/20 Board: 7 2 J 3 K 9 Q Me: (5-A) 2. The K brings it in. The 7 raises. I have 10 points plus one duplicate, one card needed, and one low card behind me. Me: (5-A) 2, 10 Opponent: (x-x) 7, A He bets and I call. *** 5TH STREET *** Me: (5-A) 2,10,4 Opponent: (x-x) 7,A,9 He bets. He has a 9-7 made hand, but with a bike draw I’m the favorite. I raise and he calls. *** 6TH STREET *** Me: (5-A) 2,10,4,3 Opponent: (x-x) 7,A,9,J I hit a wheel. I decide to bet since he is going to be chasing his money. He calls. *** 7TH STREET *** Me: (5-A) 2,10,4,3 (K) Opponent: (x-x) 7,A,9,J (x) I bet and he calls. I win with my wheel. $394 *********** # 84 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571797205: Table Hollywood
- $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 23:59:38 ET 2007/12/20 Board A J Q K 5 4 10 3 Me: (8-6) J. I fold, after the player with the 5 raises. $393. *********** # 85 ************** FullTiltPoker Game #4571805045: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 Limit Razz - 0:00:24 ET - 2007/12/21 Board: 10 10 Q Q 10 4 8 Me: (A-8) 10. I folded after the player with the 4 raises. $392 FullTiltPoker Game #4571809701: Table Hollywood - $5/$10 Ante $1 - Limit Razz - 0:00:52 ET 2007/12/21 Board: A 7 K Q 10 8 7 8 Me: (Q-3) 7. I fold $391.
Total: Win $191: Played 49 hands in 29 minutes.
Razz Poker Player Cheat Sheet 3rd street: Is it a playing hand, stealing hand or a folding hand? · If it’s a playing hand: Use the Starting Hand Point System · If it’s a stealing hand and you get called, prepare to fold
4thstreet: You hit a good card: Bet or Call You hit a mediocre or bad card: Use the Two-Level Rule You have the “visible” lead: Bet
Two-Level Rule: When your 4th street card is two-levels lower or more than your opponent, you bet. If not, check or fold. (Corollary: When your card is two-levels higher or more than your opponent, check or fold.) Important: Exceptions to folding on 4th street: · There was 2 or more raises on 3rd street, call · You have 3 cards to a bike, call
5thstreet: Use the Lead or “Four-card draw” rule:
· If you are ahead in both: Bet. · If you are ahead in one: Call · If you have neither: Fold Should you jam the pot? · Made 10 hand: No. It’s never a favorite against a drawing hand · Made 9-8, 9-7: Yes, but only against any 8 draw (ties with 7 or 6 low) · All other made 9 hands: Yes. Favorite against all draws · Made 8 Hand: Yes. Favorite against all draws · (Corollary: Use the above info to know when to jam as the drawing hand)
6thstreet: Give yourself a chance to get lucky on the river if:
· You are not drawing dead and · You are getting 7-1 odds. 7thstreet: What your read? You make the call....
Razz Poker Tips Don’t forget pot odds. A pot that has been raised and re-raised will usually give you the right pot odds to call even if you hit bad on 4th street. The Slow-play. Limp in first with a good hand, especially with one or more lower cards behind you. If you get raised, call the raise. The raiser won’t put you on a good hand. As a result, you can win a big pot if you hit good cards. Take advantage of the aggressive players to your right. You notice a player to your right who always raises with the lowest or 2ndlowest card. When you have position, you should re-raise even with a higher exposed low card to get heads-up. If you hit good, you’ll win with a bet on 4th street if he is stealing. The Short-handed Limp. When the table is shorthanded, be more inclined to limp into the pot with a good hand. It will give you an opportunity to win a bigger pot, and it will cost you little to fold if you miss. The Limp/Re-raise. Limp in first with a good hand, another player limps in as well, and a third player raises. Since the limper is between you and the raiser, re-raise to get heads-up. Even if the raiser has a lower exposed card than you, make this play. Getting heads-up significantly improves your chance of winning. Also, if the original raiser doesn’t raise, he may not be that strong after all. Take advantage of the bad players. A player who calls a raise as the bring-in bettor with a picture card exposed. Raise that player when he is the bring-in bettor, if you have the chance to get heads up. Take advantage of the bad players. A bad player is one who limps in or calls a raise with an exposed card 10+. Try to get heads-up with this player. Take advantage of passive players to your left. When you have the lowest or 2ndlowest exposed
card compared to the passive players to your left, raise as a steal. If you get re-raised, you can fold. If you have one low card in the hole, call the raise. If you hit good on 4th street, you may win with a bet. Don’t chase without proper odds on 4thstreet. When there is only one raise on 3rdstreet, and you are heads up, if you hit bad on 4thstreet, fold when your opponent bets. The pot odds will not be right for a call. Take advantage of the aggressive Ace-raisers. A player who always raises with an exposed Ace can be taken advantage of heads-up. Re-raise that player with a low exposed card to get heads-up. If you hit good, you will win with a bet on 4thstreet if he was trying to steal. The Winning hand check. When you are headsup on 6thstreet, and your opponent can’t catch up with you, check your hand. Your opponent will most likely check as well. On 7thstreet, bet out. If your opponent is aggressive and hits a good card, he may raise you. Now, you can re-raise and win a big pot.
Appendix: Simulations The following simulations compare player A's draw against Player B's made 9-low hand: Example: 9-4 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 3,4,10 Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 3,5,10 Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 61% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 4,5,10 Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 61% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against 6-4 draw Player A: (A-2) 4,6,10 Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 63% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against 6-5 draw Player A: (A-2) 5,6,10 Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 64% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against 7-4 draw Player A: (A2) 4,7,J Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player A: (A-2) 5,7,J Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 68% favorite. Example: 9-4 low against 7-6 draw Player A: (A2) 5,7,J Player B (3-4) A,2,9 Player B is a 69% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 3,4,10 Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 52% favorite.
Example: 9-5 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 3,5,10 Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 52% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against Bike draw Player A: (4-2) 3,5,10 Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against Bike draw Player A: (4-2) 3,5,10 Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against 6-4 draw Player A: (A2) 6,4,J Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player A: (A-2) 6,5,J Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 61% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against 7-4 draw Player A: (A2) 4,7,J Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 65% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against 7-5 draw Player A: (A2) 5,7,J Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 65% favorite. Example: 9-5 low against 7-6 draw Player A: (A2) 7,6,J Player B (3-4) 2,5,9 Player B is a 68% favorite. Example: 9-6 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-3) 4,5,Q Player B (A-2) 3,6,9 Player B is a 54% favorite. Example: 9-6 low against a Bike draw Player A: (A-3) 4,5,Q Player B (4-3) 5,6,9 This is a coin-flip.
Example: 9-6 low against 6-5 draw Player A: (A3) 5,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,6,9 Player A: (A-3) 5,6, Q Player B (4-5) 6,2,9 Player B is a 53% favorite. Example: 9-6 low against a 7-4 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,7,Q Player B (A-3) 4,6,9 Player B is a 63% favorite. Example: 9-6 low against an 8-3 low draw Player A: (A-2) 3,8,K Player B (4-3) 5,6,9 Player B is a 69% favorite. Example: 9-6 low against an 8-7 low draw Player A: (A-2) 7,8,K Player B (4-3) 5,6,9 Player B is a 74% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-3) 5,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player A is a 53% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-3) 5,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player A is a 53% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against 6-4 draw Player A: (A3) 6,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player A: (A-3) 5,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player B is a 52% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against a 6-5 draw Player A: (A-3) 5,6, Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,9 Player A is a 53% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against 7-3 draw Player A: (A2) 3,7, Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player B is a 52% favorite.
Example: 9-7 low against a 7-4 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,7,Q Player B (A-3) 6,7,9 Player A is a 52% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against a 7-4 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,7,Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,9 Player A is a 53% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against a 7-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 7,5,Q Player B (2-3) 4,7,9 Player B is a 61% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against a 7-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 7,5,Q Player B (2-3) 4,7,9 Example:9-7 low against a 7-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 7,5,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player B is a 60% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against 7-6 low draw Player A: (A-3) 7,6,J Player B (2-5) 4,7,9 Player B is a 64% favorite. Example: 9-7 low against 8-3 low draw Player A: (A-2) 3,8,J Player B (4-5) 6,7,9 Player B is a 68% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against 6-4 draw Player A: (A-3) 4,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player A is a 56% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against 6-5 draw Player A: (A-3) 5,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player A is a 54% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against a 7-4 low draw Player A: (A,3) 4,7,Q Player B (A,3) 4,8,9
Player A is a 54% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against a 7-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 5,7,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Example: Rough 9 low against a 7-6 low draw Player A: (A-3) 6,7,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player A is a 51% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against an 8-3 low draw Player A: (A-3) 8,2,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player B is a 53% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against an 8-4 low draw Player A: (A-3) 8,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against an 8-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 8,5,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player B is a 69% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against an 8-6 low draw Player A: (A-3) 8,6,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player B is a 63% favorite. Example: Rough 9 low against an 8-7 low draw Player A: (A-3) 8,7,Q Player B (A-3) 4,8,9 Player B is a 69% favorite.
A made 8 low hand is a favorite against any drawing hand: Example: 8-7 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-3) 5,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,8 Example: 8-7 low against Bike draw Player A: (A-2) 3,4,Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,8 This is a coin flip. Example: 8-7 low against Bike draw Player A:
(A-2) 3,4,Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,8 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: 8-7 low against 6-4 draw Player A: (A3) 4,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,8 Player B is a 54% favorite. Example: 8-7 low against 6-5 draw Player A: (A3) 5,6, Q Player B (A-3) 4,7,9 Player B is a 52% favorite. Example: 8-7 low against 6-5 draw Player A: (A3) 5,6, Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,8 Player B is a 52% favorite. Example: 8-7 low against a 7-4 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,7,Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,8 Player B is a 53% favorite. Example: 8-7 low against a 7-6 low draw Player A: (A-3) 6,7,Q Player B (4-5) 6,7,8 Player A: (A-3) 6,7,Q Player B (4-5) 3,6,8 Player B is a 53% favorite. Example: 8-6 low against a 6-5 low draw Player A: (A-3) 6,5,J Player B (4-5) 3,6,8 Player B is a 55% favorite. Example: 8-6 low against a 6-3 low draw Player A: (A-3) 6,2,J Player B (4-5) 3,6,8 Player B is a 56% favorite. Example: 8-6 low against a 5-3 low draw Player A: (A-3) 5,2,J Player B (4-5) 3,6,8 Player B is a 56% favorite. Example: 8-6 low against a 4-3 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,2,J
Player B (4-5) 3,6,8 Player B is a 56% favorite. Example: 8-5 low against a 7-3 low draw Player A: (A-3) 4,2,J Player B (4-5) 3,2,8 Player B is a 72% favorite. Example: 8-5 low against a 6-5 low draw Player A: (A-2) 5,6,J Player B (4-5) 3,2,8 Player A: (A-2) 5,4,J Player B (4-5) 3,2,8 Player B is a 56% favorite. Example: 8-5 low against a 4-3 low draw Player A: (A-2) 3,4,J Player B (4-5) 3,2,8 Player B is a 56% favorite.
New! Now you can get poker insurance with PokerSurance.
Does your online site include PokerSurance? You’ve seen poker professionals on TV buy insurance when they move all-in on a hand of poker. It’s a smart bet since it protects them from a bad beat and losing all their money. But, everyday players don’t have this option and experience the real pain of going broke. A new side bet called PokerSurance gives every poker player the insurance option formerly reserved only for high-limit poker pros.
Here’s a typical example: You move all-in with pocket Aces and get called by another player’s inferior hand. But, the poker gods are against you and your aces get cracked. You are busted and leave a loser. With a PokerSurance bet, when you are all-in, the dealer offers you PokerSurance. Now, if you lose to this player’s inferior hand, you still win your PokerSurance bet. You play longer, and win more. While poker insurance has been around for decades, it was something negotiated on the side between the high rollers of poker. Casinos didn’t offer it to their players since they never figured out how to make money on it. A Pokersurance bet solves the problem as it sets up a consistent way for the dealer to offer an attractive wager for players. PokerSurance is available for on-line poker sites, casinos and card rooms. Ask your online poker site to include PokerSurance in their games today. To find out more about PokerSurance, contact
[email protected].
