Spencer not happy with his release, maybe to the #7 in 2003? UPDATE 2 Furr or Baldwin as #7 crew chief? Jimmy Spencer said Friday he’s upset about how he got the word – via a phone call – that he’d be out of the #41 Dodges owned by Chip Ganassi at the end of the 2002 Winston Cup season. Spencer said he is also angry that the decision came so late in the season after he had been assured several weeks ago that his contract to stay in the #41 in 2003 would be honored. Spencer declined to comment further about his dismissal. He is already looking for another ride for next season. Spencer has made contact with Jim Smith, owner of the #7 Dodges that will be driven by Jason Lefler for the final two races of this year after Casey Atwood was moved out of that ride.(ThatsRacin.com)(11-8-2002) UPDATE: Spencer might not be out of work long. Jim Smith would love to have Mr. Excitement behind the wheel of the Ultra Motorsports #7 Sirius Dodge in 2003. “We need to get this car in the top 20 next season,” Smith says. “We need stability. Spencer has a lot to prove, and so do we.” Smith plans to meet with crew chief Tony Furr to determine whether Furr will return in 2003. If not, expect Tommy Baldwin, who started the season with Ward Burton, to take the job.(Sporting News)(11-11-2002) UPDATE 2: Car owner James Smith is looking at his options after his co-ownership deal with Ray Evernham went south earlier this week. Smith and Evernham shared the #7 car to give Casey Atwood a place for to drive, after being displaced from the #19 ride at the end of the 2001 season by Jeremy Mayfield. Smith, who was getting his engines from Evernham as part of his Atwood deal, is 99 percent sure that hell run Mike Ege Racing Engines in 2003 as the team rebuilds. Smith’ short list of drivers includes Jason Leffler, who drove the #7 car this week at Phoenix and will also run the car at Homestead; Ted Musgrave, Kevin Lepage and Jimmy Spencer. Smith also confirmed that Tony Furr left the team mid-race at Rockingham last week because he was disgusted with Atwood’ performance. Atwood’ name is floating around the garage for several possibilities, including an Evernham-prepared car.(Ford Racing)(11-12-2002)
