Commuter clause says if you have two options to make it in, and neither work out, then you're ok. However, the flight time you miss, due to not making it to work on time, comes out of your sick bank. (Sick leave accrues at 3.5 hours per month). So if you miss a lot of work due to long/bad commuting, you're kinda screwing yourself too.

Regarding commuting, There are 4 direct flights per day from MSP to Dayton...all Delta. There are 8 to Charlotte (4 Delta, 4 US) and one to TYS (also delta). Commuting on US metal means you can see loads and will have a better idea ahead of time if you'll get on the flight or not. As a wholly owned subsidiary, you'll have priority over all other non-revs except mainline guys and those on vacation passes which is of course also advantageous. So, Charlotte is your better option. The best option is to move to whatever base is most junior, but other life considerations don't always make that feasible.

Good luck.