From what I've read the Sequoia is a rather heavy bike with heavy wheels.
Have you looked at the 2019 Fuji Jari 1.5 ? ($1300).
Only the two mid-fork mounts on both legs, however looking at the frame I'd say it would be more compliant than the Salsa. Lighter also.
10sp Tiagra with an FSA crank 46/30. 34t cassette.
Threaded bb, like on the Salsa.
What I would do though is spend that remaining $200 on switching out the Lyra brakes to Juin Tech R1, along with compressionless housing.