Hi there,

I like the idea of checking the ignition system. It's the first step in troubleshooting hard start issues.
When you say in the morning specifically it can be moisture affecting wiring or the caps components.

Since the engine runs as has no power issues, that rules out valve timing.

The next thing is the lack of fuel or too much fuel, if it's flooding.

Since it sets overnight, I want to go with loss of rest pressure/volume in the fuel rail. The overnight symptom is a big give away! Replenishing the fuel rail, while trying to draw fuel from it, takes time and sometimes several cranks.

This could be a bad FPR or fuel pressure regulator, lazy or dying fuel pump(s) and/or check valve of outside the main pump. 250K is about the break point, for me, to consider the pumps.
If it did it more often or died for no reason, like you said it did that makes the "fuel system relay" an even bigger suspect. It's behind the glove box.

The last chance is a fuel injector leak down problem, which is rare and should only affect one cylinder.

Using the gas pedal only gives the engine more air to clear flooding. It does nothing for adding fuel.

The car should start without outside intervention. If my cars will not start by reaching though the window and turning the key...there is a problem!

Take your pick, all are good suspects.

Phil