Pocket 5s in the big blind with a short stack

[SuitedPair]

I let the time almost drain off on this one. Easy fold if it was raised before the button. The button’s almost min-raise and SB’s call didn’t make me think I was worse then 50/50, I figured I would be up against two overcards. If I pushed I thought button would fold because SB was still left to act or would push to isolate, so I thought it would be heads up if I pushed. I also thought there was a 20% or so chance that they would fold and I’d pick up the pot uncontested, doubling up my stack. If called I think I’m 50/50 to triple up.

I did think about calling and pushing any non-ace flop. But I thought it would be better to play the hand v. one opponent than 2. Plus, not being the first to act I would have to fold if SB bet the flop.

I pushed, button folded and SB called. Flips over ATo and hits the A on river.

One of my possible leaks is playing as a short stack with high blinds. I have to remind myself to be patient and its best to be the first in the pot. Here I was a very distant fifth and felt I needed to make a move before the blinds came back to me – 6 hands, otherwise I would have close to zero FE.

[Texas Pete]

Nice analysis. I didn't realize at first that Button would fold out of fear of SB. Very very good point. OTOH I don't think you can count on SB having just overcards all the time. Regardless it is still a good bet, since you are 48% to win if you put him on 22-AA/any suited ace/A9os/Any two big cards (T-A).