Flop Analysis
Standard check across our entire range. This board favors the button's range of broadways and overpairs, so we play defensively to start.
With middle pair at a 15BB depth, we must play aggressively to deny equity to overcards and protect our hand.
Standard check across our entire range. This board favors the button's range of broadways and overpairs, so we play defensively to start.
Middle pair is a powerhouse at this stack depth. While calling is a viable trap, raising is the preferred strategy to force button to define their hand and fold out their overcard equity. **Ranges:** The button's c-bet range is wide, containing many hands like AK, AQ, and KQ that have significant equity against us. By raising, we deny them the chance to realize that equity for free or hit a superior pair on the turn. **Math:** Facing a 2.5BB bet with only 14BB behind creates a low SPR environment. Calling leaves us with a tiny stack-to-pot ratio on the turn, making it difficult to navigate if an Ace or King peels. **Sizing:** A raise to roughly 6BB or even a direct shove simplifies the game tree. It puts the pressure back on the button's marginal Jx and draws, while maximizing our fold equity against their air. --- > **Takeaway:** At 15BB, middle pair is often a 'stack-off' hand; don't be afraid to raise to protect your equity against overcards.