Steal the pot with a big 3-bet behind an open raise and a cold call. Master the sizing, hand selection, and timing of the squeeze play.
A squeeze occurs when someone open-raises, one or more players cold call, and then you make a large 3-bet from behind.
The difference from a standard 3-bet:
| Type | Situation | Fold Equity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 3-bet | Facing only the opener | Moderate |
| Squeeze | Facing opener + caller(s) | High |
IP Squeeze: Open size x 3–4 + caller's amount OOP Squeeze: Open size x 4–5 + caller's amount
Pot before squeeze: SB 1 + BB 2 + MP 5 + CO 5 = 13
IP formula: 2.5 x 3.5 = 8.75 + caller 2.5 = 11.25
Rounded up: approximately 11–12bb is appropriate → 22 (11bb) chosen
In practice, going slightly larger = more folds induced
Pot before squeeze: SB 1 + BB 2 + UTG 5 + HJ 5 = 13
OOP formula: 2.5 x 4.5 = 11.25 + caller 2.5 = 13.75
Rounded up: approximately 14bb is appropriate → 28 (14bb) chosen
OOP sizes larger than IP: compensating for postflop positional disadvantage
Hands that are profitable even when called:
| Hand | Reason |
|---|---|
| QQ, KK, AA | Premium hands; fine against calls or 4-bets |
| JJ | Mostly value; calling is also an option in some spots |
| AKs, AKo | Strong equity when called; can go all-in vs 4-bet |
Hands targeting fold equity:
| Hand | Why It's a Good Bluff |
|---|---|
| A5s–A2s | Ace blocker + suited + low cards preserve folding range |
| K9s–K7s | King blocker + suited + playable if called |
| 76s, 65s | Complete unblockers + decent equity + nut potential |
Conditions for a Profitable Squeeze
Source: Upswing Poker — SplitSuit
Log in to write a comment.
Your 4-bet range should be polarized. Learn how to properly balance value (AA, KK) with bluffs (A5s, A4s).
A 3-bet isn't just a 'strong hand raise.' Learn how to construct value and bluff 3-bet ranges and adapt by position.
The small blind has already put money in, but it is almost always out of position. This article explains how to reduce losses through stealing, 3-betting, disciplined calling, adjusting to the BB’s tendencies, and avoiding donk bets.
Opening sizes should vary by position. We break down optimal sizing for each seat, plus the key differences between online and live play.
The big blind gets great pot odds but is always OOP. Learn how to adjust your defense range and 3-bet strategy based on the opener's position.
Tight from UTG, wide from BTN. A complete guide to opening ranges and sizing by position in 6-max cash games.
