Hi All, John Taormino here. I spoke to Ellis and he asked me if I would post a few of the tactics that are INDESPENSIBLE If you want to be a Professional 1st Base PLAYER. 1ST, YOU MUST qualify the table. Look at the player who is at second base or the next spot over to 3rd base and use his cards as the qualifying cards. Obviously, if 1st base is already occupied, leave. You must know these 2 most imporatant factors before you can succeed with 1st base play. The NORMAL DISTRIBUTION RATE FOR FIRST CARD TENS AND ACES IS 40%. So, if you are not beating this figure by at least 10%, you are achieving nothinbg statistically at all. Remember this most important statistic. You would like 55% and up MINIMUM in drawing a first card ten or ace. Second, and this is the most IMPORTANT factor in first base play, you MUST LOOK AT WHAT THE DEALER DREW IN THE ROUNDS WHEN YOU PREDICTED THAT YOU WOULD GET THE 1ST CARD TEN OR ACE. If the dealer ALSO RECEIVES A 1ST CARD TEN OR ACE, MATCHING YOUR 1ST CARD TEN OR ACE, THIS IS DISASTEROUS AND COUNTS AS STRIKE ONE. The most important factors regarding 1st base is your frequency in getting that 1st card ten or ace in relation to the statistical norm of 40%. Additionally, if you are betting an increased bet because you are expecting a 1st card ten or ace, and you get one BUT so doeas the dealer, this is a huge DISADVANTAGE!!!!. Be cognizant on what the dealer gets as his upcard in the rounds that you predict that you will receive a 1st card ten or ace. LET THIS SINK IN, IT IS OF VITAL IMPORTANCE!!!! I will be posting other aspects of PROFESSIONAL FIRST BASE PLAY IN THE UPCOMING WEEK. STAY TUNED!!!! Remember, this is the only forum on the web in which you can get advice and Professional Tactics from players who are really out there in thetrenches, winning consistently. Thank you Ellis and Keith for your professional approach in everything you do. Yes, everyone sometimes make mistakes, but that is part of the learning process. Analyze your mistakes and the solution will come painlessly. I'll be in touch, John Taormino