Sleeper Straddle
What Does Sleeper Straddle Mean in Poker?
A sleeper straddle is a voluntary blind bet made by a player who is not in the immediate position to the left of the big blind. This bet is typically double the big blind and is placed before the cards are dealt, effectively buying the bettor the last action before the flop.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Sleeper Straddle
You might hear this term in cash games where players are looking to increase the stakes or create more action. It’s often mentioned in discussions about aggressive play and strategic positioning.
In-Game Example
Imagine you’re seated in a live poker game, two seats to the left of the big blind. You decide to place a sleeper straddle, doubling the big blind before the hand begins. This move allows you to act last pre-flop, giving you a strategic advantage.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Use the sleeper straddle to increase the size of the pot and gain positional advantage, especially if you have a tight image at the table.
- Common Mistake: Overusing the sleeper straddle can lead to unnecessary risk, especially if done without a solid plan for post-flop play.
- Pro Tips: Employ the sleeper straddle selectively against opponents who are not adept at adjusting their play to unexpected aggression. It works well in live games where you can read physical tells.
- Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online: While sleeper straddles are common in live games, they are rarely seen online due to the structured nature of online poker platforms.
Alternative Names
There are no widely recognized alternative names for a sleeper straddle, but it may simply be referred to as a “straddle” in some casual settings.
FAQs
Q: Can you sleeper straddle in tournaments?
A: Sleeper straddles are typically only allowed in cash games, as tournament structures don’t usually permit them.
Q: How does a sleeper straddle affect pot odds?
A: It increases the pot size pre-flop, potentially altering pot odds calculations and encouraging more aggressive play.
