Don't read anything into the guys getting commands on the Freighter in short order. That all happened in the late 90's and things sure have changed.
Not sure where Y fronts get his info, but in essence commands on the freighter are dealt with the same way as the pax; senior most suitable applicant. It matters not whether you are on the freighter now or have never been. There is no requirement to be "within 2 years to command", how the heck do you determine if you are???
As for the girls...they are known as the Olympic flames...can go round the world and never go out.