Well...I spoke to the folks in contract enforcement. They were quite familiar with this situation, and provided good information. Unfortunately...it didn't result in any leveling for me. The reference isn't worded the best, but makes some sense.

I don't think that CRS is intentionally out to shaft us, but I don't have the legal credentials to properly interpret our CBA sometimes.

If a reserve pilot is removed from a reserve trip prior to actual block-out for the reasons stated in Section 4.H.4.a. (this paragraph), his RLG shall be credited as provided in Section 4.H.4.b., H.4.c., and H.4.d.

1. A reserve pilot removed from a trip for the following reasons shall return to his reserve schedule:
   1. trip canceled; (Section 25.H.2.a.)
   2. trip revised to extend beyond R-days; (Section 25.M.1.b.)
   3. early show without notice; (Section 25.H.2.c.)
   4. weather restrictions; (Section 25.H.2.f.)
   5. FAR or other governmental authority; (Section 25.H.2.g.)
   6. Contract limitations (Section 25.H.2.h.)
2. If the pilot is removed from the trip via VIPS more than 1:30 hours prior to his scheduled showtime for an R-1.5 reserve, or more than 3 hours for an R-3, or more than 20 hours for an R-24, he shall receive no credit for that trip.
3. If the pilot is removed from the trip via VIPS 1:30 hours or less prior to his scheduled showtime for an R-1.5 reserve, or 3 hours or less for an R-3, or 20 hours or less for an R-24, he shall be credited 3 CH showpay toward his RLG.
4. If the pilot is removed from the trip via VIPS at or after his scheduled showtime, he shall receive 3 CH showpay toward his RLG.