Just booked a Y fare (2 legs) for travel within 10 days. It's my understanding looking at the delta's medallion benefits page that Y fare class tickets upgrade at booking. Leg 2 = upgrade. Leg 1 = no upgrade. There are also no seats in Y in Leg 1. F wide open.

Curious if others have experienced this. Perhaps get an upgrade at the gate? This is a PM and DM heavy route and I'm traveling on a Monday. Can't afford to not have a seat and get IDB'd on Leg 1. Suggestions?

I should note I'm flying out of a small airport and have very limited options in terms of daily flights in order to get to my final destination same day.