In a game of poker, a straddle bet allows the player to essentially act as a third blind, increasing the stakes of the round. It’s an optional bet, usually placed by the player seated immediately to the left of the big blind, and it must be made before any cards are dealt. A straddle increases the pot size and shifts the betting order, as the straddling player gets the option to act last during the initial betting round. This bet is typically twice the size of the big blind, but it can vary depending on house rules.
Straddle in Poker Example
For example, in a $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em game, the big blind is $2. If the player to the left of the big blind decides to straddle, they would place a $4 bet before the hand starts, raising the stakes for the entire table.