Robert ‘Bootie’ Barker to join Michael Waltrip Racing in 2009

Michael Waltrip Racing announced today that Robert “Bootie" Barker will become the new crew chief on the No. 55 MWR Toyota for owner/driver Michael Waltrip for the 2009 season.

"Bringing Bootie on as my crew chief is part of a larger plan that enables Bobby Kennedy to move into a critical management position," said Waltrip.

Barker, a journeyman crew chief who has worked the pits in NASCAR Sprint Cup racing before with drivers Dave Blaney, Jason Leffler, Mike Bliss, Jeff Green and Scott Riggs, says he is thrilled at the opportunity to join the two-time Daytona 500 winner’s organization.

"I really appreciate the confidence that Michael has in me," said Barker. "He has accomplished a lot in his racing career, and the fact that he wanted me to be his crew chief goes a long way for me personally."