I had no idea about Alaska Airlines. I need to read this board more and more carefully. Thanks for the tip.

Small update (if anyone cares): I switched from the ANA flight as they were never answering the phones and hard for me to ask about my seat. Also, I read that online check-in won't work for code shares. So I switched to a United flight.

Pro: They gave me a free Economy Plus seat.

Con: I arrive at Chicago and have 1hr 15mins to get through customs and board my connecting flight. They said that since the time is listed on the site United is confident about this being enough time this but I am not so sure. I hope I can make it. If not I assume they will fix it......