medium · Poker Theory Foundations

In high-rake environments, why does the 'Raise-or-Fold' strategy in the Small Blind become more attractive relative to the 'Limp-Raise Hybrid'?

1. Rake punishes small-pot, high-frequency play, devaluing the many marginal pots created by limping.
2. High rake increases the MDF of the BB, making it harder to limp-fold profitably.
3. Limping allows the BB to see a flop for free, which is prohibited in raked games.
4. The raise-or-fold strategy ensures that the rake cap is reached more frequently, reducing the effective rake rate.

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