Preflop Squeeze Strategy: 3-Betting After an Open and a Call

Short Answer

A squeeze is a 3-bet after an open raise and at least one call. It attacks capped calling ranges and dead money, but it needs fold equity or strong value support.

Range Structure

The opener retains a strong top range, while cold callers are often more capped. Value squeezes include high pairs and strong Ax. Bluff candidates prefer blockers and playability, such as Axs, Kxs, and suited broadways.

Sizing

Out of position, size larger to reduce multiway calls. A common baseline is 4 to 5 times the open in position and 5 to 6 times out of position, increasing with more callers.

Decision Steps

1. Check whether the opener over-folds or over-4-bets.
2. Assess whether callers are capped and can fold.
3. Add blocker-heavy playable bluffs.
4. When called, plan postflop around low SPR.

Practice On Site

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