AJo BTN on AJ3r: Sizing Down with Top Two

Hero
A♠J♣
Position
BTN vs HJ
Pot
3-Bet Pot
Flop
3♠ J♠ A♥

While our hand is a powerhouse, we should use a smaller sizing to keep Villain's wide range of pocket pairs and marginal draws in the pot.

Flop Analysis

We have a massive equity advantage (62%) and should bet almost purely. While we have top two pair, a smaller sizing is preferred to maximize value from Villain's condensed range. **Ranges:** We have a significant nut advantage with sets (AA, JJ) and top two pair (AJ) that HJ lacks. HJ's range is heavily weighted toward middle pocket pairs like TT-QQ (49%) and weaker top pairs like AQ/AT. **Sizing:** A 33% pot sizing (5.4BB) is superior to the 50% sizing used. Smaller bets force Villain to continue with their entire range of pocket pairs and spade draws, whereas larger bets allow them to play perfectly by folding their weakest holdings. **Blockers:** Holding the As is double-edged; it blocks Villain's top pairs (Ax) and the nut flush draw, but our hand is so strong that we don't need to worry about protection as much as we need to focus on getting paid. --- > **Takeaway:** On dry or semi-wet boards where you have a massive range advantage, use small c-bet sizes to keep Villain's marginal hands wide and indifferent.

Note: Sizing is slightly too large; a 33% pot bet is more effective at keeping Villain's wide range of pocket pairs and marginal draws in.

Key Concepts

  • 5.6
  • Hero Strong Advantage
  • IP
  • Semi-Wet Board
  • LEAN TOWARD CHECK