connectors question

What exactly is the advantage of a connector over close cards?

Ie, why would 89s be better than 97s? The way I see it:
- your trips can flop all the same
- your flush also
- I can see similar odds for a straight-draw flopping, all you need is that '8' in the latter case.

Any input?

78 can make more straights than 79, so the chance of flopping a straight is the same.


456 (78)
569 (78)
69T (78)
9tJ (78)


78 can make 5 (2 card) straights.



568 (79)
68T (79)
8TJ (79)

79 can make 3 (2 card) straights).

Obviously the hand with the most chances of making a straight should make the straight most often.

Damn, I shoulda caught that one myself, is so obvious. Thanks!

But then.. playing suited connectors could be a good idea, preferably in position, just so you don't appear too tight and something just might hit?

Suited connectors (and 1 gappers) are very nice hands to play in position. Ill sometimes raise + cbet them in position on tight tables. but on most low stakes tables you just dont need to. See some nice cheap flops and bet your hands if you hit.