PFR from SB

Overview

PFR from SB (Pre-Flop Raise from Small Blind) is one of the commonly used HUD (Heads-Up Display) statistics in Texas Hold'em, measuring how often a player raises pre-flop when in the Small Blind position. It is typically expressed as a percentage and reflects the player's aggression from that position.

Calculation

This statistic is calculated only for hands where the player is in the Small Blind position. It measures the proportion of those hands in which the player voluntarily raises. For example, if a player encounters 100 hands from the Small Blind and chooses to raise in 20 of them, their PFR from SB is 20%. Note that this statistic excludes limping or folding.

Strategic Significance

• Nits: A low PFR from SB (e.g., below 10%) indicates the player tends to raise only with strong hands and may often fold or limp, making them exploitable from the Small Blind.
• Aggressive Players: A high PFR from SB (e.g., above 20%) indicates the player raises frequently from the Small Blind with a wide range, aiming to steal blinds or seize initiative. However, being too aggressive can lead to significant losses when facing re-raises.
• Balanced Range: Skilled players adjust their PFR from SB based on opponents. They typically raise with a wider range when facing no prior action, and tighten up against tight opponents.

Relationship with Other Statistics

• SB VPIP: Similar to voluntarily put money in pot from the Small Blind, but VPIP includes both limps and raises, while PFR from SB only counts raises. Combining the two can reveal whether a player limps too often.
• RFI: Raise First In usually refers to raising when no one else has entered the pot. PFR from SB is analogous for that specific position, but the Small Blind must consider that the Big Blind has yet to act.

Typical Range Example

Assume a regular player has a PFR from SB of 15%–20%. Their corresponding hand range might include: all pairs (22+), all ace-high hands (A2s+), some suited connectors (e.g., T9s+), and some suited one-gappers (e.g., J8s). Facing a 3-bet, they typically only continue with higher-quality hands.

Notes

• When the sample size is insufficient (e.g., fewer than 50 hands), this statistic has low reference value.
• In tournaments, due to changing blind structures, the PFR from SB strategy needs dynamic adjustments.
• Different stakes and opponent types significantly affect this statistic. It is recommended to combine it with other factors such as opponent's bet sizing and post-flop tendencies for a comprehensive judgment.