Well, at least AA will start the process D-12 hrs, which is much more generous than DL's D-3 hrs.

<sigh> I guess I'll just keep watching both of our itin for schedule changes, and if that fails, call at D-12.

I often check in at the ticket counter, not online, and request different flights (usually earlier but on the same route) than what I have. The TA sees my status and often gives them to me without charging the $25 fee when there seems to be plenty of availability. This way I'm never on the standby list at gate. What would this be called? Is it like "advanced standby"?