I haven't seen this discussed, but this is going to go the way of United not even having to offer a VDB. As the article says, Flying A to B to C, but (A-b or b-c) oversold? Offer them A-C for free.
No VDB, and customer is happy. I also prefer talking with people as you can get "creative" in options. I have no problems flying some weird route if need be, or to a nearby city, if that's a better option, which it sounds like won't be an option here. I also bet it wouldn't be let you get rebooked in Y or F/J/A.