[ QUOTE ]
Why do people say to fold small pairs early? Just curious since I always limp any pair early. I only play them for set value. I assume the reason you play mid pairs is for set value correct? If so what is the difference in playing 77 for set value versus playing 22 for set value? Are you really that worried about being beaten by a bigger set if you play 22 - 66? But not worried about being beat by a bigger set with 77+? I have always been confused by this advice, just wondering if anyone can clear this up.

[/ QUOTE ]
Middle pairs hold up without improvement more often than tiny pairs.

When you don't flop a set with 2-2, you will always have an underpair. Someone with bottom pair has you beat.

With 7-7, the flop will often come random crap like 3-5-J, and your 7-7 will be good here more often than not.

At the $11's many players will gladly play any ace. Your 7-7 will beat A-5 and A-3, you will get a little value from that. 2-2 is basically hopeless without a set.