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why do some poker players seem to fold way too much preflop

I keep running into players in live games who just fold everything except premiums, even in late position. It’s weird because I’m not talking about the tightest nits who are clearly just waiting for AA or KK. These folks will look at something like 77 or A10 suited on the button and just muck it without any pressure before them. Sometimes the blinds are passive too, so it isn’t even a tough spot.

I get not wanting to spew chips with garbage hands, but it feels like these players are leaving money on the table, especially when no one else at the table is putting up much resistance. Makes me wonder if I’m missing something or if they’re just too risk-averse. The pot odds and position advantages just get wasted a lot. Curious if this is more common in live low stakes or if it’s a psychological thing I’m not picking up on. Would be interesting to know what others have seen.

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B
823

that folding habit always stuck out to me at live dealer tables too. i noticed a pattern, some players just focus entirely on protecting their buy in, not maximizing value. it's a bankroll safety thing more than nerves. i once saw a guy buy in for 50bb, never played a single mid-strength hand all night, and left happy after an hour up two blinds. different priorities, but you can predict who’s never going to double through you when you get involved.

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J
919

It’s usually nerves or wanting to avoid any tricky spots postflop. I’ve done it myself when on tilt or after a string of cold cards. Funny thing is, folding too much preflop actually increases risk in the long run - because you’re never cashing in on those easy steals. Ever try gently probing one of them for why? I once learned a guy was terrified of being caught “bluffing” even with AT suited.

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