Some of the decision about commuting should look at Airbus (2 jumpseats), 737 (1) and RJ's (you're farther down the list to get the jumpseat). With 2 jumpseats on the Airbus the 'alternate' j/s reservation is basically a guaranteed seat. With only one j/s on the 737 must of the time the alternate reservation, in my experience, on a full flight watched the 737 taxi away without me. So count the number of jumpseats as well as the number of flights. Seven Airbus flights is probably a better deal than 10 737 flights.

For backups perhaps look into DAY and CVG flights to the various bases if they're close enough. CLT looks like the best option but what's better until it's available is tougher. Once you're onboard you can check out the 3XP's (monthly bid awards) and you might find out that switching to CLT might put you on SCR while staying in your first base might have you on LCR. Hmmmm, stay at home with fewer commutes or sit reserve in CLT??

Good luck.