Why a byline strike?

Reporters at the Honolulu Advertiser recently conducted a byline strike to protest their lack of a contract. (Full report here.)

I've never understood the logic of doing this. It's commonly done and for the life of me can't figure out why this will convince management to pay reporters more. That's because I have a strong suspicion that readers don't care who the writer is. In some cases they might recognize the name of the reporter. In virtually none, I am willing to bet, does the byline add any value.

Instead, how about withholding something management or the readers find of value? How about the crossword puzzle, the comics or the school lunch schedule. Leave those out and I promise you will get the reader's attention.