It was reported Friday that Casey Mears who took over the #5 machine after Kyle Busch was let go, will be repeating Kyle Busch’s same fate at the end of this season and is being let go from Hendrick Motorsports.

“We’ve put a ton of emphasis on the No. 5 program,” Rick Hendrick said. “It’s been a total team effort, and Casey has worked as hard as anyone to help us improve. We’ve tested more than we ever have, but the results just haven’t come. “

“None of us, Casey included, have been satisfied with the situation this season. But he’s confident there are other options out there for him in 2009, and we feel like Hendrick Motorsports will have some opportunities, too.”

It’s not like it was a walk in the park for Casey to keep up with his HMS teammates. Entering the race this Sunday at New Hampshire, Mears has a meager three top-10 finishes and is 24th in point’s standings. Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson and Dale Earnhardt Jr. are all within the Top 7.

“I know the effort has been there, but we haven’t had the finishes to show for it, I’ve never tested this much or put more energy into racing. But, for whatever reason, we just haven’t been able to make it click. It’s certainly not for lack of dedication on anyone’s part.” Mears said.

“I’ll talk to people about opportunities and get my 2009 plans wrapped up soon, but I’m also focused on the next 20 races and finishing 2008 on a positive note. We ran well the second half last year, and I know we can do it again. I want to close this season the right way.”

The rumor’s running rapid is that Casey will be replaced by Mark Martin who is currently racing part-time with DEI. Mark Martin will race the #5 car part-time with Brad Keselowski. It can’t be Greg Biffle because he has just resigned with Roush. Some other possible available drivers are Ryan Newman and Martin Truex Jr. Could there also be a possibility that they are making a spot for Tony Stewart who is exploring other opportunities beyond JGR after his contract is up? Hendrick has not confirmed any reports as to who is replacing Mears at this time.

I would keep a lookout for Mears, he could end up being another Kyle Busch success story for next year.