Newman!

Well it is official, Ryan Newman was fined 25 points for having the one corner of his car too high after the Texas race last weekend. Penske was also fined 25 owner points, and Newman's crew chief was put on probation until the end of the season and fined 25 grand.

Officially, Newman was found to be in violation of Sections 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock-car racing); 12-4-Q (car, car parts, components and/or equipment used do not conform to NASCAR rules); and 12.8.1C (right-rear quarter panel height did not meet the required specification; too high in post-race inspection) of the 2008 NASCAR rule book.

Now before all of you start screaming, "Why didn't he loose 100 points like everyone else?" this fine handed down by NASCAR is consistent to the fine that Carl Edwards got last season at Dover for a similar infraction.

This now moves Newman from 8th in points to 10th.


Mayfield!

Jeremy Mayfield has been released from the CNC Haas #70 ride and has been replaced by Johnny Sauter for the race this week at Phoenix. It is still unclear as to weather Johnny will be driving the 70 car past this race or not.

The official language used in the CNC Haas press release given by team general manager Joe Custer is really interesting;

"Jeremy's proven resume behind the wheel of a Cup car was a real benefit to our team," Custer said. "He stepped into the seat and did everything we asked him to and more.

"Ultimately, we were unable to provide him with the right balance, handling and speed he needed to be successful. We wish Jeremy nothing but the best for his future."

After reading the first line I was left asking, "OK, if he has done everything and more for you, then why are you releasing him?" But then I read the second line and everything was made clear to me, Jeremy asked to be released again. That is the only conclusion I could get from that quote. Essentially it is saying, "He did great for us, but Jeremy didn't like anything about the car and has asked to be released."

Do you sense a pattern here? Almost every single team he has driven for at the Cup level he has left for greener pastures due to poor performance. Those teams include Cale Yarborough's operation, Penske and Evernham and now CNC Haas.

Maybe he wants to be in contention for the newly formed RCR #33 car and that is why he was 'released'. Who knows really, all we can do is speculate at best.

For more about Jeremy's history in Cup go here.

Take Care.