Baker Curb Racing announced the selection of chief engineer Jeff White as new crew chief for the #27 Kleenex Ford. White replaces NASCAR veteran Shawn Parker who resigned following the Watkins Glen race to pursue other opportunities. White comes to the #27 car from within the Baker Curb organization, having served as crew chief for the #37 car this year. Driver Brad Coleman is also leaving the #27 team to take over the wheel of the #96 Sprint Cup car. His last race with Baker Curb was a top-10 finish this past weekend at Watkins Glen. A replacement for Coleman has not yet been named.(Baker Curb Racing PR)(8-13-2008)
UPDATE: David Gilliland, who drives for Yates Racing in Sprint Cup, has been signed to replace Coleman in the #27 Ford for Saturday’s Nationwide race at Michigan. Gilliland was in Nashville today at the team’s shop and was fitted for the car.(Tennessean.com)(8-13-2008)
UPDATE 2: Nashville-based Baker Curb Racing has released Nationwide driver Brad Coleman from his contract because of a car manufacturer conflict. Coleman signed with Hall of Fame Racing last week to replace J.J. Yeley in Sprint Cup, driving a Toyota. He will attempt to qualify Friday for Sunday’s race in his Cup debut. Baker Curb is a Ford team. “It’s never really a positive when you race in a Ford on Saturday and a Toyota on Sunday,” Baker Curb co-owner Gary Baker said. “Neither manufacturer is happy when that happens.” Baker said the team has not selected a driver to finish the season. He said multiple drivers could complete the year.(Tennessean)(8-14-2008)
UPDATE 3: Brad Coleman has issued the following statement: “I asked for and was granted a release from Baker Curb Racing. It was time for both parties to take different paths for the future. It has been an honor to represent the family of Kimberly-Clark brands. They are a great company and I truly love their products. I wish all of the guys involved at Baker Curb the best in the months ahead. I know they will ultimately put together the proper resources they need to be a competitive team. It’s tough out there for the independents but I believe they will get the job done.”(Brad Coleman PR)(8-14-2008)
