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Hendrick Motorsports Revamps Bowman's Pit Crew for Playoffs

9/10/2025

Summary

Bowman Changes Pit Crew

Hendrick Motorsports is overhauling Alex Bowman's pit crew for the Bristol playoff race.
New members include Daniel Bach (front tire changer), Rod Cox (rear tire changer), Jarius Morehead (tire carrier), and Cody French (jackman).
Bowman is 35 points below the playoff cutoff and struggled with long pit stops in previous races.
Only fueler Jacob Conley remains from the previous crew.
The race is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Summary

NASCAR Playoffs Intensify

The Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway occurs Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET, serving as a key elimination event in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs.
Denny Hamlin and Chase Briscoe have advanced to the Round of 12, while Alex Bowman, Josh Berry, and Shane van Gisbergen must win to progress.
NASCAR will apply PJ1 traction compound to improve track conditions, despite negative fan feedback.
The race consists of 500 laps, with Bristol's short track potentially causing major shifts in standings.
Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano hold strong positions, while Austin Cindric is near the cut line.

History

Historical Context

NASCAR's playoff format, introduced in 1994, transformed race strategies and intensified competition among teams. This shift has pressured dominant teams like Hendrick Motorsports, which has secured 12 championships. As Alex Bowman faces elimination, changes to his pit crew highlight the critical role of team dynamics in the playoffs, underscoring the high stakes of modern NASCAR racing.

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Bowman Changes Pit Crew

Hendrick Motorsports is overhauling Alex Bowman's pit crew for the Bristol playoff race.
New members include Daniel Bach (front tire changer), Rod Cox (rear tire changer), Jarius Morehead (tire carrier), and Cody French (jackman).
Bowman is 35 points below the playoff cutoff and struggled with long pit stops in previous races.
Only fueler Jacob Conley remains from the previous crew.
The race is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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