Playing with 'Rags' in Poker

Rags is the name given to hole cards that are of low quality and don't offer much noticeable value and potential. These are more typically hands that cannot be made into a straight easily, are not suited or connected and are low in value.

The term is still applied when one of the cards is a high card, for instance an A2 would often be referred to as 'Ace Rag' or a 'Rag Ace'. Hands like 2-7, 2-8, 3-7 and so on are all classed as rags. They're not what players should really be playing as they often present significant challenge, especially when they hit top pair (as players still don't know if they're good. Another reason they are not considered good cards is that if the low card pairs, there are very often over cards on the board (you don't know where you are in the hand) and if the high card pairs, there is a low kicker - not great prospects.

More players often play rags, often more as a challenge to see if they can win the hand. 2-7, widely considered the worst hand in Hold'em is a popular hand for this reason. Additionally, where the board hits low and connects, the hand can be very well disguised. Unless you know what you're doing, it's probably best to fold and wait for a better spot!