Hog Tied.
There is no real bidding system at CAL now either.
We now have the 'PBS' system (stands for preferential 'bidding' system) preferential to management that is.
Every pilot enters their wish list of choices from among dozens of parameters and the computer 'builds' you a line usually around 90 hours of 'hard' flight time.Often the computer will disregard your preferences for unknown or obscure reasons. You certainly cannot count on certain days / weekends off.
There are no longer preconstructed lines of time.
Most people dislike PBS, it really places complete control of your schedule with management, with little or no ability to trade your awarded trips due to chronic and deliberate understaffing.
It is rather like putting the whole airline on reserve, management loves it as thay can manipulate the schedules for the lowest cost but it is a big disadvantage in quality of life over our previous system for most of our pilots.
So, your schedule is flown as given to you. As far as intimidation is concerned, we do not lack for that either, with management constantly pushing or breaking contract limits. Sounds a bit like Cathay, but without the pay and benefits..