NASCAR: The Five Biggest Mid-Season Surprises Of 2016
By Mike Hutton
#2 – No. 14, Tony Stewart – Stewart-Haas Racing
While some drivers are on this list because they have not won so far in 2016, Tony Stewart is one who is on this list because he has won. Say what?
One has to be honest – given the well-documented challenges of the last three seasons coupled with the No. 14 car’s performance during the early part of this season, a win just didn’t seem in the cards. At least there was no evidence to believe one was imminent. However, beginning with Pocono, fortunes seem to have changed. Stewart has qualified and/or has been a front runner each of the last four events.
Yes, Stewart is to be considered a threat to win at any track on any weekend, but even die-hard fans were beginning to accept reality – their star, while absolutely capable of getting a win and into the top-30 in points – might not do so. Thankfully, those concerns have been put to rest.
Stewart’s’ average finish in 2016 has been 18.1, but has risen in recent weeks. It would seem that he and crew chief Mike Bugarewicz have learned to communicate effectively and are beginning to gel. At this point, Stewart is 2 points above the 30th position in points, and will need to continue to run well to ensure he stays there. He deserves to finish his Sprint Cup career as a legitimate championship contender.
Next: #1 - The Future Has Arrived