In the late 80's when I was hired it was believed that getting hired by the major airline your commuter fed was not as likely as having another major "steal" you away from the competition. Thus unless you were a legacy or well connected the chances of being hired at AA from your job at Eagle were less than if you were working for someone like ASA or Comair. My new hire class had two from other than Eagle regionals and I do not recall meeting any former Eagle pilots during new hire training. Just saying.