While I agree it's not the best situation for a Mastermind to be in, it's not unworkable. With Bodyguard and a willingness to resummon pets, you shouldn't be dying any more than your teammates who are doing the same thing (running around ignoring spawns looking for crates). If you're able to stealth and all your pets die (or you die), you can ignore summoning them until a target is found to destroy; with stealth, the NPCs won't bother you unless they're already aggroed or they're throwing AoEs near you.
Besides, it's fine to let all the other ATs have a chance at glory once in a while, you know? 
http://www.fimfiction.net/story/36641/My-Little-Exalt
I have been doing that and still only getting the 10 thread prize 
Bonnie and her bunny
Arc ID: 59406
The Trash Came Back
Arc ID: 350303
I noticed that the part where you go after the weapon crates and acid barrels, that MMs have only two options, keep up with the team and die over and over and over or afk till that phase is over.
why only these two options?
A) pets are too slow to keep up with the team and you
B) most mobs are left alive even around the glowies
C) once you die its a gauntlet due to A and B to catch up with team mates
D) all the above.
I tried my hardest to stay alive and keep up with the team but in the end my only reward was either 10 threads or a few super inspirations. oh yeah and when I used an acid on one of the portals it almost killed me, and I mean I had just a thread of life left even with my bubbles on.
what do you guys think?
Bonnie and her bunny
Arc ID: 59406
The Trash Came Back
Arc ID: 350303