Which flop produces the better draw for Ts8s?

1) 9h7sAc (open-end straight plus three-flush)


2) 9h7s8c (open-end straight plus second pair plus three-flush)


The problem here is that, while the second flop gives you more outs, it is also problematic insofar as you will occasionally have to split the pot with another ten if a jack or a six comes down. If it was just heads-up the second flop would of course be preferable over the first, but I think it might be possible that, when facing a certain number of players, you would prefer the first flop because the danger of having to split the pot with another ten becomes to high. Is that true, and if yes, how many opponents seeing the flop (let´s say in a loose-passive game for one bet) are the threshold?

ive actually thought about this before and based on my experience the second type of flop is very very difficult to play, while its relatively hard to make a mistake with the first flop.


brad

Yes, it is interesting, isn´t it? More outs, but not necessarily the better flop.

here are some results from my programme:


number of opponents : percentage of wins if played out


1.


1 : 55%

2 : 42%

3 : 37%

4 : 34%

5 : 32%

6 : 30%


2.


1 : 74%

2 : 57%

3 : 45%

4 : 37%

5 : 32%

6 : 28%

wow, Mike that was an amazing response.

After the question I found myself wondering how you could ever prefer the first flop over #2. I think with # 2 you will win bigger pots more often. I mean with # 2 even the made hands (i.e. top pair,overpairs) will feel weak but they will still always call or even raise the flop to then get smacked down by any number of possible turn cards, and hands like 66,55,54s,A5s,A6s may call the flop or turn even though they are for the most part drawing dead for the strait.


I guess I just really enjoy the added small odds draws in the # 2 flop like trips or fh, I'd rather have that draw on my side than go up against AA who flops trips and can force 10 8 out when the turn or river cards come up blank


i believe Mike's board.