MP 100bb Push Fold

Overview

MP 100bb Push Fold is a preflop strategy concept used primarily in tournament play or cash games with deep stacks. It applies specifically to Middle Position (MP, seats approximately 4-6 at a 9-handed table) when the effective stack size is exactly 100 big blinds. The strategy dictates that the player either pushes all-in or folds any hand, never limping or making a standard raise. This approach simplifies decision-making and eliminates postflop play, exploiting opponents' tendencies to call or fold against a large shove.

Context and Usage

This strategy is most relevant in aggressive, high-variance formats like sit-and-go tournaments or late-stage multi-table tournaments where ICM pressure is moderate. At 100bb, a shove from MP is large enough to put significant pressure on opponents behind (CO, BTN, SB, BB) but not so large that it is only called by premium hands. The push fold range for MP at 100bb typically includes strong hands like TT+, AQ+ for value, and occasionally weaker hands like suited connectors or small pairs as bluffs, depending on opponent tendencies and table dynamics. However, a balanced GTO approach would often include mixed strategies; the pure push-fold approach is a simplification.

Strategic Considerations

• Stack Depth: 100bb is deep enough that many players will call lighter than against a shorter stack, but still tight enough that a shove denies implied odds. MP's position is vulnerable to re-shoves from later positions, especially from the blinds.
• Opponent Adjustments: If opponents are calling too wide, tighten the push range; if too tight, widen it. The strategy assumes opponents play optimally or predictably.
• Alternatives: In modern poker, especially at 100bb, a standard raise (e.g., 2.5-3bb) is more common to maintain stack flexibility and postflop play. Push-fold is more typical for stacks <30bb.

Limitations

Using a rigid push-fold strategy at 100bb can be suboptimal because it forgoes the ability to play postflop with strong hands that benefit from extraction. It also reveals hand strength: a shove from MP at 100bb is polarized (strong or weak). Skilled opponents will exploit this by adjusting their calling ranges. Therefore, this strategy is best used as a simplified fallback against weaker opponents or in time-constrained situations.

Typical Push Range Example (MP, 100bb)

• Value Push: JJ+, AK, AQs
• Bluff Push: A5s, KQo, 87s (occasionally)
• Fold: All other hands, including small pairs and suited connectors that would be playable with a standard raise.

Note: These are illustrative; actual ranges vary by opponent and game type.