If you're AA plat then you're flying at least 50k miles/year. That should give you 16 stickers that you can use for upgrades. So it shouldn't, "cost," you anything, you can use what you already have.
If needed, there is also a way to convert miles to stickers.

I have so many stickers (about 40) that I always request upgrades but rarely get them. I'd gladly give over 4 to be comfortable for a redeye.