Open Raise from HJ

Overview

HJ (Hijack) is the position immediately to the right of the CO (Cutoff). In a standard 9-handed table, it is located at UTG+1. An Open Raise from HJ refers to a player in this position making the first raise preflop when no one has raised before. Since the HJ position is relatively late but still has 2-3 players (CO, BTN, SB, BB) yet to act, the opening range is typically wider than early positions but narrower than late positions.

Strategic Implications

• Position Advantage: Although HJ is not as good as CO or BTN, it has more information than UTG and MP and can use position to pressure the blinds.
• Opening Range: Typical ranges include all pocket pairs (22+), most suited connectors (56s+), high card hands (ATo+, KQo+), and some suited aces (A2s+). Specific ranges should be adjusted based on opponent style and stack depth.
• Facing a Re-raise: When re-raised (3-bet) by CO or BTN, HJ should defend cautiously, typically continuing with strong hands like QQ+, AK; if the opponent is aggressive, can slightly widen.

Notes

• Avoid frequently raising with weak hands (e.g., QTo, small suited connectors) to prevent being squeezed by later position players.
• If the blinds are loose, increase the raise size (e.g., 2.5-3 BB) to reduce opponents' pot odds.
• Example: In a 100NL game, all players fold to HJ. HJ holds KJs and can raise to 2.5 BB. If BTN calls, use position advantage to c-bet on the flop.

Related Terms

• CO Raise: Open raising directly from the CO position, with a wider range.
• BTN Raise (Steal): Button raise typically targets the blinds.
• UTG Raise: Early position raise with the tightest range.
• Isolation Raise: A raise made when there are callers to isolate a fish player.