I had something similar happen to me in the past. I was in 1L and they informed me at the gate that they needed to move me because of a baby.
They wanted to move me to an even-numbered seat. I said I wanted an odd window seat but was told none were available.
I pulled the "1K card" and told them to move someone else. They picked a non-status person and moved him.
Felt bad about being a diva/dykwia, but not bad enough I guess.
For you, I guess keep your eyes glued on the seat map. Depending how bad you want your seat, you could try your luck with the 1K line, checkin, gate agent. HUACA til you get what you want.
As for your question, maybe its a baby too, not sure if 1A also has the bassinett. Crew rest could very well be a reason, though not sure why the pilot has to be in 1A. What's wrong with 12A. Or even 1L