Yates releases the No. 88 because of family ties

Team owner Robert Yates says family ties led him to retire the No. 88 from his arsenal and allow Dale Earnhardt Jr. to race with it in 2008.

"Ralph Earnhardt drove the No. 88 Olds in 1957, and because of this number's history with the Earnhardt family, I felt car No. 88 should continue with Dale Earnhardt Jr.," Yates said of Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s grandfather.

"Younger fans don't realize I built cars and raced against Ralph. I also had a very close relationship with Dale Earnhardt Sr. I'm proud to transfer this number to Dale Jr. and let him know how much I appreciate the friendship and competitive racing I've always enjoyed with his family."

Dale Jarrett won the 1999 NASCAR Cup title with RYR in the No. 88. Scenedaily.com