Jim,
While I grant firm and fast is tougher all around, is the statement "If you can spin the ball sufficiently to hold the green from the "wrong" angle then the strategy is clearly neutered" really true?
If a green angles right, and has an opening, I figure its an easier shot from the right because you have greater margin for error both short and long. If coming in from the left edge, you probably have to take enough club to carry a bunker, but have distance control and/or hit more spin, to avoid going over the green. The right side probably has more back to front slope to assist you, as well (if typically designed) It takes a really good shot to come over the bunker, stay below the hole, etc.
So, the advantage reduces from perhaps missing the green to hitting it from firm and fast, the advantage to avoid a downhill putt, and get close to the pin still exists, IMHO. And, it might be better. Do we really need a birdie to bogey swing in strategy? Or is more likely birdie to more likely par enough?