NASCAR: Kurt Busch Lands James Finch No. 51 Ride for 2012

A lot of race fans have been wondering where Kurt Busch would land after he and Penske Racing decided to part ways just a few weeks ago.

There were rumors that he would go to the No. 43 Petty car, but after Best Buy announced they would spend their money on advertising with Roush-Fenway, that idea went away. Many of us also felt that Roush would not have been pleased to provide parts and services for the ex-Roush driver fired about eight years ago.

Then, there was conversation about David Ragan going to Penske for a visit and possible signing for 2012, but that idea also went away after Penske announced Wednesday they had reached an agreement with A.J. Allmendinger to pilot the Pennzoil No. 22 for 2012.

That left slim pickings for the 2004 champion, but Wednesday night, Busch and James Finch, owner of Phoenix Racing since 1990 reached a one-year handshake agreement to drive the NASCAR Sprint Cup No. 51 Chevrolet.

This isn't a top shelf ride, but at least the Spartanburg, SC team has Hendrick underpinnings to give them a shot at decent finishes. They finished 30th in points for 2011, so they do have guaranteed starting spots for the first five races. I'm sure one of Finch's considerations was Busch's ex-champ status when it comes to qualifying.

Finch made it clear that he would not put up with any tirades typical of the senior Busch brother during last season.

How do I think this combo will work? I think Top 10's are possible, but not much more than that. Chase shot? I think not.