88

Overview

88 is a pocket pair of eights, often referred to as "snowmen" because the two 8s visually resemble stacked snowmen. It is considered a middle pocket pair, ranking between low pairs (22-66) and high pairs (99-AA).

Preflop Value

As a middle pair, 88 has moderate preflop strength. It is strong against unpaired hands but vulnerable to overcards and larger pairs. In early position, many players limp or fold to raises, while in late position, it can be raised to isolate weaker opponents. When facing a raise, calling to set mine (see below) is common, especially if stacks are deep.

Set Mining

The primary value of 88 comes from flopping a set (three of a kind). The probability of flopping a set with any pocket pair is about 12% (or 7.5:1 odds). To profitably set mine, you typically want implied odds of at least 15:1, meaning effective stacks should be at least 15 times the call amount. Against a small raise with deep stacks, 88 is a good hand to call and hope to flop a set.

Postflop Play

When 88 does not improve to a set, it becomes a weak made hand. On a flop with no overcards (e.g., 2-5-7 rainbow), 88 is an overpair and can be played aggressively for value. However, on flops with one or more overcards (e.g., J-9-4), it turns into a marginal hand. Against a single opponent, continuation betting may still work, but against multiple opponents or a raise, it's often best to fold.

Common Situations

• Overpair: On low flops, 88 can be a strong overpair. Betting for value and protection is typical.
• Underpair: On flops with overcards, 88 is an underpair. Check-folding is frequent, especially against tight players.
• Facing aggression: If an opponent raises your bet or check-raises, 88 is usually behind against a range that includes overpairs, top pair, or sets. Folding is often the correct play unless you have a read.

Tournament vs Cash Game

In tournaments, 88 gains value due to its ability to win pots without showdown and its potential to double up when hitting a set. However, ICM considerations (in the money) may make it more cautious. In cash games, 88 is a profitable hand with proper preflop and postflop decisions, but it requires careful handling against larger stacks.

Summary

88 is a solid starting hand that plays best when it flops a set or overpairs low boards. It requires discipline to fold when overcards appear or when facing significant aggression. Its nickname "snowmen" adds a fun element, but the strategy is serious: set mine cheaply or avoid losing big pots with a marginal holding.