AS THE RUMOR MILL CHURNS, 7/9/08

What we are hearing, from our own industry sources in the garage all the way through to the various media outlets across the NASCAR landscape:

Joe Gibbs Racing will first look to sign a veteran driver to a short-term deal for the #20 Home Depot Chevy. The organization is concerned they would be rushing 18-year-old Joey Logano if he were to drive full-time in Cup next year, and will only allow him to sit in the #20 full-time next year if a suitable stop-gap cannot be found. Source: Stock Car Talk

Despite protests to the contrary, Roger Penske will make a push to put two-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves in his #12 Dodge should Ryan Newman bolt as expected at the end of the year. Source: Stock Car Talk

David Reutimann is in line to replace Kyle Petty in the #45 Dodge next year. An announcement of the switch could happen "soon". Source: Bob Margolis of Yahoo! Sports

Scott Riggs has already spoken with at least two owners regarding a future ride should he not be retained by Stewart-Haas Racing next year. Source: SceneDaily.com