All week, we're taking a look at NASCAR's top teams and sizing up their 2009 seasons to date. Next up: Penske Racing.
Drivers (rank): Kurt Busch (4), Sam Hornish Jr. (29), David Stremme (32)
Wins of 19 races: 1 (Busch, Atlanta); Hornish won the non-points Sprint Shootout
The story: A mixed bag. While Busch has rediscovered his championship form -- his win at Atlanta in March was one of the most dominant performances in a race in several years -- Hornish and Stremme have struggled, often as a result of poor luck. Hornish in particular had seemed to finally get a handle on the Car of Tomorrow, but his finishes haven't reflected that. Stremme, back in a Sprint Cup ride after a year's absence, isn't exactly tearing up the track either; he's ranked behind Michael Waltrip, who's run one fewer race than him this year.
Verdict: Busch and team owner Roger Penske have had their differences through the years, including a blowup this season during a race. Would that be enough to keep Busch from re-upping with Penske when his contract runs out next year? And if Busch goes, where does that leave Penske? Would the team be able to lure another of the high-profile free agents into its stable?
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