DL isn't having problems recruiting new pilots, and likely won't for years. I think it's a combination of two problems, inefficient 50 seaters and potential for fewer available pilots down the road, or eventually. That's where the 88 717s and any other 717s they can find will come in. They can take the place of two RJ flights and employ people who want to be there, flying to cities that 76 seaters or even current 50 seaters fly to. DL would have direct oversight over the training of the employees, and adherence to the brand standards.
But, there will be huge retirements at all 3 legacies, and that alone will take 15,000 pilots from the Military (fewer pilots out there), LCCs, and the Regionals. That alone will accelerate RJ parking, not to mention the lack of pilots coming from places like UND and Riddle.
I think anyone with any Jet PIC will have a pick of their choice of Legacies eventually. Then pilots with any jet time will be next. My advice to any RJ pilot who might want to go to a legacy and who feels stuck at a Regional with current stagnation or downsizing and lack of an upgrade available, go to a LCC. The Legacies will probably poach pilots from them too.
Bye Bye---General Lee