Hi sbm12 -
Sorry for not perusing this forum sooner.
MCE on AA (at least on the flights I usually am on) is more like 36-37, not 34. So it is close to the EMS pitch of 38. So if I am getting that at a better price point than B6 (because of my AS status) and get miles I can use on TPAC flights, why wouldn't anyone fly AA instead?
I agree with you, it is about being comfortable on the flight and not about "something for nothing". And I am getting more comfort at a better price.