Definition
A squeeze is a 3-bet made when there's already an opener AND one or more callers. You're "squeezing" out the dead money from multiple players.
Squeeze = 3-bet vs open + caller(s)
Why Squeezes Work
| Factor | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dead money in pot | More to win preflop |
| Opener's range is capped | They didn't 4-bet the caller |
| Caller's range is weak | They just called, not 3-bet |
| Combined fold equity | Both might fold |
Anatomy of a Squeeze
UTG opens to 2.5BB
CO cold calls
You (BTN) squeeze to 10BB
Now both UTG and CO face a big bet with money already in the pot.
Squeeze Sizing
| Situation | Sizing |
|---|---|
| 1 caller | 4x the open |
| 2 callers | 5x the open |
| 3+ callers | 5-6x the open |
| OOP squeeze | Add 1-2BB more |
Example Sizing
Open: 2.5BB 1 caller: Squeeze to 10BB 2 callers: Squeeze to 12-13BB
Ideal Squeeze Spots
Best Situations
| Factor | Why It's Good |
|---|---|
| Late position open | Wide range |
| Tight cold caller | Will fold easily |
| Deep stacks | More fold equity |
| You have position | Play well if called |
Best Squeeze Hands
For Value:
- AA, KK, QQ, JJ
- AK, AQs
As Bluffs:
- A5s, A4s (ace blocker + playability)
- KQs (good blockers)
- 76s, 65s (nut potential if called)
Squeeze Success Rates
| Caller Type | Expected Folds |
|---|---|
| Tight player | 70-80% |
| Average player | 50-60% |
| Calling station | 30-40% |
⚠️ Don't squeeze against players who never fold!
Defending Against Squeezes
As the Original Raiser
| Your Hand | Action |
|---|---|
| Premium (AA, KK) | 4-bet |
| Strong (QQ, AK) | Call or 4-bet |
| Medium (JJ, AQ) | Call or fold |
| Weak | Fold |
As the Cold Caller
You're in the worst spot:
| Reality | Action |
|---|---|
| Your range is capped | Usually fold |
| Exception: premiums | Call or raise |
Squeeze from the Blinds
Blinds are common squeeze spots:
| Position | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|
| SB | Lots of fold equity | OOP if called |
| BB | Even more fold equity | OOP if called |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Problem |
|---|---|
| Sizing too small | Get called, no fold equity |
| Squeezing calling stations | They don't fold |
| Never squeezing as bluff | Unbalanced, only value |
| Squeezing OOP with weak hands | Terrible if called |
Key Takeaway
Squeezes exploit the dead money from opens and cold calls. Size larger than normal 3-bets, target weak cold callers, and balance value squeezes with bluffs using suited blockers.