David Ragan’s future unclear

David Ragan’s future is looking more in doubt as the days go day. With no sponsorship, Ragan is left without a ride for 2012 as of this time.

Joining Roush Fenway Racing in 2007, Ragan’s performance hit its peak this year after winning his first race, the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona. Highlighting his career thus far, Ragan has 12 top-5 and 30 top-10 finishes in 182 races with Roush Fenway Racing.

Team owner Jack Roush spoke to media members Monday morning while celebrating Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s Nationwide Series championship. Roush addressed the topic of Ragan and his status for next season.

"My expectation right now is that I don't see having something for David next year," Roush said. "We aren't far enough along ... There are some discussions ongoing but they aren't far enough along that I would put more than a 40 percent chance of having something for David."

"David Ragan was a frustration and a disappointment for all of us," Roush said, "because he was not able to realize the potential that he had, given what his skill is and what the expectations of the sponsor were, and what the performance that was being demonstrated in the car, and what the engineering package was."

The outcry from fans about the latter statement has been harsh, but let’s dissect this a bit.

The following are Ragan's finishes in the points standings during his Sprint Cup career:

2007: 23^rd
2008: 13^th
2009: 27^th
2010: 24^th
2011: 23^rd 

Now, part of the argument given by many is that Ragan is the “odd man out” at Roush Fenway and given the lesser equipment, but I have to disagree after looking at some simple facts. Most teams run equal packages, unless something new is being tested. Look at it this way – Carl Edwards had an engine problem this year. Greg Biffle lost an engine just this week at Homestead. Also, look at other teams with engine and performance issues. Denny Hamlin had an awful year with his engines, which is why Joe Gibbs Racing is partnering with Toyota Racing Development for its engines starting next year. Would Hamlin be dealt the lesser equipment at JGR versus teammate Joey Logano? Hamlin and Logano both have top sponsors to please, but Hamlin wins out in the performance area.

It is challenging as fans when you hear heart-breaking news concerning your driver or team, but in perspective, change can be good. Look at Elliott Sadler - he was not succeeding at the Cup level and this season finished 2^nd in the Nationwide Series. Sadler was voted Most Popular Driver last night and is happier than he has ever been.

Being more competitive versus running mid-pack at times would be a great morale boost for any driver. For Ragan, why not go to the Nationwide or Camping World Truck Series? There is no rule saying that if you scale back now, you can never go back to the Cup Series.

And no matter what, your fan base will follow you wherever you go.