I will let some of the newer guys tackle the reserve question. Reserve can blow in FL because you will cover every base in FL. I didn't fly too much on rsv, but when I did, it made for some long days. Dramatic increase in QOL once a line holder.

Briefly looking at the new hire awards in last six months, I noticed many more SFB positions than PIE. PIE has become a bit more senior I suspect. You could probably hold SFB right out of training if you don't care which aircraft you are on.