Part I: Games & Gaming · Card Games — Baccarat & Blackjack

Third Base

Blackjack

The betting position immediately to the dealer’s right (last to act), also called the “anchor.” The player at third base makes their decision after seeing all other players’ actions, making this position preferred by card counters. Superstitious players sometimes blame third base players for “taking the dealer’s bust card.”

In practice

Surveillance may note players who consistently seek the third base position, especially if combined with large bet spreads — this can be an indicator of card counting activity.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.