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Poker Term

MP 75bb Defense

MP 75bb Defense

Term: MP 75bb Defense The overall defensive strategy employed by the Middle Position MP player against a late position raise when effective stack size is approximately 75 big blinds, including calling and raising ranges and frequencies.

Overview

MP 75bb Defense is a key strategy for middle position players in deep stack (approximately 75BB) situations. When an MP player opens or gets raised by a late position player (e.g., CO, BTN) raise, they need to adjust their defense based on opponent range, position, and stack depth.

Typical Situation

Suppose an MP player opens to 2.5BB, and CO or BTN calls. In this case, MP's defense includes not only preflop actions but also postflop range balancing. Typically, MP uses a linear or polarized range, adjusting bet sizing based on the opponent's calling range.

Range Construction

  • Calling Range: Includes medium pairs (e.g., 77-99), suited connectors (e.g., 65s-KQs), some Ace-high hands (e.g., AJs), and some structured hands (e.g., JTs).
  • Raising Range (3-bet): Typically polarized, including top strong hands (QQ+, AK) and a few bluffs (e.g., A5s, J9s), with a frequency of about 10-15%.

Considerations

  • Opponent Tendencies: Against aggressive opponents, increase calling frequency; against passive opponents, increase raising frequency.
  • Stack Depth: 75BB is medium-deep, leaving room for postflop play, so the calling range can be slightly widened.
  • Position Disadvantage: MP acts first, so defense must be cautious about reverse implied odds and avoid getting involved in large pots.

Common Mistakes

  • Overfolding: Folding too often against continuation bets allows opponents to exploit you.
  • Range too tight: Defending only strong hands loses a lot of pot equity.

Adjustments

  • Against blinds: If blind players frequently 3-bet, reduce open-raising frequency and tighten the defense range.
  • Against late positions: When CO or BTN raises frequently, MP can call with a wider range, but avoid using weak hands against tight players.

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