Straddle
A voluntary blind raise posted before the deal, usually to twice the big blind.
A straddle is an optional blind bet placed before the cards are dealt, normally by the player under the gun for twice the big blind. It effectively doubles the stakes for that hand and gives the straddler last action before the flop.
Straddling generally loses money for the straddler — you are putting money in blind and out of position — but it creates bigger pots and looser action that disciplined players can exploit. See how to play at straddle-happy tables.
Put the concepts to work
Arch City Poker turns terms like this into structured lessons, quizzes, and coaching for live cash-game players.
Start your membership