To me it is just one of many design decisions that we make out of habit.
There is nothing I know of to prevent hardwiring any range other than "we always do it that way".
It would not surprise me if Chicago codes required using FMC from the wall to the range.
If you do hardwire it you will have to consider what the disconnecting means will be. You would probably have to make sure the breaker feeding it is capable of being locked in the open position.
That said why rock the boat?
I agree with Scott 100% in 20 + years doing this I have not seen properly installed range outlets have problems.
By the way even with your 2 strikes
you are welcome here.
Hope you can take some ribbing.
Bob