3-Betting Strategies in Online MTTs | The Impact of Irregular RFI Sizing

A growing discussion among online poker enthusiasts is how to handle 3-betting situations against irregular raise first in (RFI) sizing, particularly when faced with larger opens from early positions. This debate centers on optimizing gameplay with hands like QK in the big blind (BB).

Understanding the Stakes

In many multi-table tournaments (MTTs), players encounter UTG open raises of 4bb while deep-stacked. Notably, with 80bb stacks, players are increasingly curious about the right approach—should they 3-bet, call, or fold? Comments from various forums expose differing viewpoints among players based on their chip stacks and perceived table dynamics.

"4BB opens are a delight to see as the player can’t play well—overfolding is key against dominated hands like KQ," one bettor explained, emphasizing a strategy of playing passively against an overly aggressive opener.

Key Themes in the Discussion

The commentary reveals three main themes highlighted by players:

• Stack Size Matters: Many agree that the number of big blinds (BB) in play influences decision-making. With 200BB, calling is safer, but with only 20BB, folding becomes essential.

• Abnormal Raise Sizes: Players recognize that larger opens from early positions often indicate a lack of understanding about proper bet sizing. This presents an opportunity to exploit such players by trapping medium-strength hands.

• Playing Passively: A significant number of participants express a preference for flatting rather than raising, intending to capitalize on opponents' mistakes rather than creating a larger pot pre-flop.

Insights from Players

Responses trend toward a cautious yet strategic playstyle when facing irregular open sizes:

• "At 80BB, I wouldn’t 3-bet here without premium hands. I’d rather play it safe and flat," noted one commenter.

• Another added, "Playing passively worked in the hand I had to question, so thanks for the advice!"

Takeaway Points

• 🃏 Adjust according to stack size. RAISE if deep, but FOLD in short stacks.

• 💡 Exploit poor betting patterns. Larger opens can mean weaker ranges.

• 🎯 Passive play can lead to rewards. Trapping is beneficial against aggressive players.

Players acknowledge the need for adaptive strategies in MTTs, especially when confronting unconventional betting patterns. As some continue to experiment with various approaches, the community remains engaged in refining their understanding of optimal play against challenging dynamics.