I have SEA-DFW-AUK-SYD-LAX-SEA for March 16-28th, 2023 for my wife and I. Was able to use a one-way upgrade code (from 2022) to get a one-way upgrade on the DFW-AUK flight. Very cool, it's a start. AA separated my reservation from my wifes' to improve the chances for the one-way upgrade. I've heard the upgrade code for 2023 (if it exists for 75K) won't come out until April if it does.

I'll recombine my flights with my wife's this week so she can drift off my status. After that, what are my best approaches for upgrades for my wife on the DFW-AUK and both of us on the SYD-LAX legs.

I have 950K miles in my Alaska account that I'm open to using if cost effective. (also have a ton of AMEX and Marriott points) I enjoyed multiple $500 day of upgrades on to Business Class BA over the years and am open to $500 / $1000 or more cash upgrades as well.

Any advice appreciated on how to best position for upgrades for my wife ad I would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance.