As 2025 turns into 2026, we’re talking to some of the biggest names in the poker world, and reflecting on the year’s most interesting stories and events.
Here we present some strategic concepts for mixed games that were shared earlier this year by Ari Engel and Eric Baldwin.
Split pot strategy for hold'em players
Ari Engel: When you're playing split pot games, it's important to have a shot at both sides. It sounds simple but a lot of players that come across from Texas hold'em don't give it the right consideration, especially when they're looking down at pocket aces or A-K preflop.
When you only have a shot at one side of the board, whether it’s stud hi-lo or Omaha hi-lo, the max you're going to be getting is half the pot. Let's say you have a flush draw and there are already low cards out there. If you do hit the flush draw, you're only going to get pushed half the pot. That means, if you're in a heads-up situation, you're basically playing for the chance to just win your own money back.
This critically changes the dynamics of the way you should look at pot odds, and it even changes the kind of hands you want to play preflop to begin with.
The most ideal situations are when you can have a strong hand one way and at least still have some shot the other way.
Raising to thin the field
Eric Baldwin: Let’s tackle a mixed game concept that trips up a lot of no-limit Hold’em players.
In limit poker, it’s often smart to raise – not because you’re sure you’ve got the best hand, but to drive others out of the pot. When it works, your hand’s equity spikes.
In NLH, we’d rarely risk this, fearing a big reraise that blows us off our equity. But in limit, a reraise isn’t the end of the world and often justifies the equity gain.
Split pot scoop emphasis
Eric Baldwin: In split pot games like Stud 8/b and Omaha 8/b, the real edge lies in drawing to the low.
High-only hands have their moments, but NLH players tend to overvalue them. A low draw gives you a shot to scoop the pot if you backdoor a high and lets you play super aggressive when you hit, either taking it down right away or boosting your odds later. Plus, when your low turns into a monster high, opponents have to credit you for a low-only bet and will pay off your bets endlessly.
Freeroll outs in pot-limit Omaha
Ari Engel: Looking at PLO, say two players flop the nut straight, but one of them has two pair to go along with it, or a flush draw. Having the extra opportunity to make a better hand is so valuable to the math.
Guess what? Sometimes, you get lucky or unlucky. But you have to put yourself in the position to get lucky.
When you don't have those extra freerolls as a part of your hand, and you’re very aware of it, you’re able to view your strategy in a different light.
The bottom line? If no-limit hold'em is your bread and butter, make sure to adjust your thinking any time you're not playing for the whole pot.
Online is the best place to learn
Eric Baldwin: Learning mixed games live can be brutal, with experienced players, strong opinions, and a rushed, intimidating vibe. Plus, the mechanics – more cards, up cards, new betting, discards – take some getting used to.
Learning online first lets you master the basics without pressure, and you’ll see way more hands way faster. Live games stick to the regulars’ chosen mix, and one rotation can take hours. I recommend Phenom Poker. It's got 24+ variants, endless fun, and a community vibe (chat box included!) that keeps it interactive.
Eric Baldwin has won two WSOP bracelets and three Circuit rings. He was CardPlayer Magazine POY in 2009, has more than $9,300,000 in career earnings and is an ambassador for Phenom Poker. Follow Eric Baldwin on X and follow his mixed game journey on Twitch.tv.
Ari Engel has won more WSOP-C rings than anyone else. He’s also claimed four WSOP bracelets, won the Aussie Millions Main Event, boasts over 380 WSOP cashes, and has nearly $10 million in career earnings worldwide. Follow Ari on X and Instagram.
