I recently starting playing in a local APA Masters league. Under their format, up to thirteen games are played (8 in nine ball, 5 in eight ball), in a race to seven. Winner of the lag/coin flip can choose to start the match in his format of choice (8 or 9) with opponent getting the first break or he can elect to break first and the opponent chooses the initial format. The chosen format must be completed before transitioning to the other one. If you start in nine ball, unless it's a rout, you will typically play at least some eight ball. If you start in eight ball, you will always play at least a couple of games of nine, to get to a minimum seven wins for one or the other player.
I play both eight and nine about equally well but am maybe slightly better in nine. Anyway, I was looking for opinions on the best strategy for the winner of the lag/coin flip. Is it typically better to take the break or select the format? I know it may also depend on the opponent, so also assume alternate scenarios: 1) opponent's strength is unknown, 2) he plays at about your level, 3) he is substantially better than you, or 4) substantially worse than you.
I play both eight and nine about equally well but am maybe slightly better in nine. Anyway, I was looking for opinions on the best strategy for the winner of the lag/coin flip. Is it typically better to take the break or select the format? I know it may also depend on the opponent, so also assume alternate scenarios: 1) opponent's strength is unknown, 2) he plays at about your level, 3) he is substantially better than you, or 4) substantially worse than you.
