Texas Holdem Poker - How to Play Pocket Pairs in Tournaments
By Nate Shaw

The difference from low pocket pairs and middle pocket pairs is small but makes a difference in how you might play them. With middle pocket pairs you have a better chance of getting a flop that contains all under cards. So having fewer opponents in the hand, especially blind hands, can be a great benefit. When playing these hands it’s a good idea to make a small raise, this builds the pot and gets some players out to limit the field. You don’t want someone to call you with 7,9 when you have pocket tens, only to hit a flop like 4,9,7. A flop like that would make you think have the best hand, but would most likely get crushed by two weak pair.

When there’s a small to medium raise in front of you it would be ok to call with a middle pocket pair. Just be careful if the flop comes all low cards, the raiser could have a higher pocket pair. If its just one on one I would make a medium bet or raise a medium bet. If the opponent make a re-raise muck you hand. Most likely he has a higher pocket pair. If he calls I would make another bet on the turn and check on the river. Be careful if over cards come, but don’t act too weak or your opponent may try to make a bluff.