Something of this size the decision was likely made. I hope it doesn't because I make it via waiver, and spend well beyond that, but likely would only make Platinum on pure Delta spend. And not going to just spend 5K or more just to do it.
New strategy would be some MR on partner airlines that earn on distance flown. Which brings up an interesting point. You can fly from JFK-PVG-NRT and back on MU for 600-700 dollars and get a T, B, B and T Fare. The MQDs earned is FAR more than the same flights on Delta unless it's booked at a very expensive time. They want to delete waiver but you can still fly this route a few times and rack up MQDs and the money spent isn't even on Delta.