SB Fold to 3-Bet

Overview

SB Fold to 3-Bet (often abbreviated as SB Fold to 3B or SB vs 3B Fold) is a HUD (Heads-Up Display) statistic commonly used in online poker. It tracks how often the player in the small blind (SB) folds their hand when they face a 3-bet after they have made the initial raise (open-raise) from the small blind. This metric helps opponents gauge the small blind's tendency to continue against aggression from the blinds or late position players.

Calculation

The statistic is calculated as:

SB Fold to 3-Bet = (Number of times SB folds to a 3-bet) / (Number of opportunities SB faces a 3-bet after opening)

Opportunities occur when the small blind open-raises, and then another player (typically from the big blind or later positions) re-raises (3-bets). Only situations where the small blind had the option to fold, call, or 4-bet are counted. Instances where the small blind is all-in or facing a 4-bet or higher are excluded.

Typical Values

In modern online cash games, a common SB Fold to 3-Bet statistic ranges from about 35% to 55%, depending on the stakes and player type. At lower stakes, players tend to fold more often (higher percentage), while at higher stakes, more aggressive players may fold less (lower percentage). Tight players may have a fold rate above 60%, while very loose or aggressive players might fold below 30%.

Strategic Implications

A high SB Fold to 3-Bet (e.g., >60%) indicates that the small blind is folding too much to 3-bets. Exploitatively, opponents can increase their 3-betting frequency against this player, especially when they open from the small blind, to steal the pot preflop. Conversely, a low SB Fold to 3-Bet (e.g., <35%) suggests the small blind is defending too often, often by calling or 4-betting. Against such a player, opponents should be more cautious with their 3-bet bluffs and may prefer to use a linear 3-betting range for value.

This statistic is often used in conjunction with other positional stats, such as SB Open Raise and SB vs BTN 3-Bet, to form a complete picture of a player's small blind strategy. Note that sample size matters; a significant number of opportunities (typically 50+) is needed for the statistic to be reliable.

Limitations

SB Fold to 3-Bet does not account for stack sizes, opponent tendencies, or bet sizing. It is a population-aggregated stat and may misrepresent a player's true strategy if they adjust frequently. Also, it only applies when the small blind opens; if they limp, it is not recorded.