Today, Hendrick Motorsports set the wheels in motion on this year's "Silly Season" by announcing they will part ways with Casey Mears at the end of the 2008 season. After much speculation the last two weeks, today's announcement comes as no real surprise.

"We've put a ton of emphasis on the No. 5 program," said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. "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."

Mears is currently 24th in the series standings and has never been a real contender for a win since capturing his first career victory last year during the Coca-Cola 600.

"I know the effort has been there, but we haven't had the finishes to show for it," Mears said. "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."

At this point, the plan is to have Mears finish out the 2008 season behind the wheel of the No. 5 before moving on at the end of the year.

"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," Mears added. "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."

Hendrick Motorsports has not announced who will replace Mears in the fourth Hendrick car, but many point to Mark Martin as the next big name to join one of the sport's most successful teams. However that announcement will be made at a later date.