"Go" and "pass through" are two different things. I agree on "destination", but you have to pass through somewhere to get to the National Parks (and other destinations that are "worthwhile") in the eastern part of the state if you live in one of the big population centers along the coast, and the alternatives to Bakersfield and Fresno are no better as stops along the way.

Now, if you're visiting the parks, you certainly would be better off staying closer to them (Oakhurst is my favorite for Yosemite, coming from the south), even if that means not using Marriott properties (other than at most "along the way" to the parks).