Are Straddles good for Small No-Limit Games?
I don't think they are.
The problem is that many "tourist type" players who drop into the poker room and play these games buy in for very small amount, such as $100 in a $1-$3 no-limit, and when a straddle is posted, this essentially turns the small buy-in into a short stack. Thus, they run the risk of getting knocked out of the game very quickly (since this type of person should have no understanding of short-stack strategy) and that's not good for the long-term health of the poker games or poker room.
Unfortunately, the straddle to the left of the big blind is so well entrenched that it's probably impossible for a poker room to end it. But button straddles should not be allowed.
My opinion also. I hate it when I'm playing and there's a guy on my right (usually a fish who has no clue) keeps button straddling and I'm forced to fold my SB/BB or else open super tight. Limping in also sucks because I have a few rogues in my room that will drop the hammer in late position to pick up the extra dead money. I limp AA sometimes.
One thing that should be non-controversial is that this way of handling a button straddle is terrible. It punishes the blinds way too much for no reason. Action should still start UTG.
I'm the opposite. I'm fine w/ BTN straddles on my SB/BB. I usually fold them anyway, and now I can easily fold or decide to raise, limp/raise, etc., depending on table dynamics and who is doing the straddling.
They do have a cap on straddle in my 1-3 games its 15$ most people aren't going over 10$ and usually if its a 15$ straddle its because the guy is on tilt.
Yeah, I'm assuming an optional 2bb straddle. A 5bb straddle (especially a mandatory one) could be way more of an issue regarding the long term health of the game.
GcluelesslongtermhealthnoobG
They do have a cap on straddle in my 1-3 games its 15$ most people aren't going over 10$ and usually if its a 15$ straddle its because the guy is on tilt.
Yeah, I'm assuming an optional 2bb straddle. A 5bb straddle (especially a mandatory one) could be way more of an issue regarding the long term health of the game.
GcluelesslongtermhealthnoobG
Also to note you aren't going to really see massive amounts of people straddling until the hour gets late and people become stacked up. The only exception to this is when a new player comes to the table and wants to appear super aggro and they start straddling not just button but also utg. I think some people do this early at a table as well to give a very aggressive loose vibe and that information can be taken as you choose.
