Protection Bet poker
1) In a big bet game, a bet made after the draw in a draw
game, or in a vulnerable position in a stud or hold 'em game,
to avoid having to call a larger bet from a potentially better
hand or from a possible bluff. For example, in no-limit lowball,
a player opens for $4. Another player raises $25. The first
player calls and draws one card, while the other stands pat.
The first player catches an 8, to make an 8-6. He does not want
to check, because, with the sevens rule, if the other player
has a 7 or better, she might bet a lot, knowing she cannot possibly
lose. So the first player now bets $4. That is a protection
bet, because the other player will likely not raise with a hand
(like a rough 7) that would be a cinch if the first player had
not bet. Also underbet.
2) A bet made to protect a player who is all in for the main
pot, as described under protect.
3) A bet made to protect a vulnerable hand, as described under
protect.
