Sauter replaces Mayfield at Haas

Mayfield, who has driven for Haas since the last four races of 2007, has had a tough start to his Sprint Cup campaign this year, and dropped out of the top 35 in the owner standings following a 38th place finish at Texas last weekend.

"Jeremy's proven resume behind the wheel of a Cup car was a real benefit to our team," team general manager Joe Custer said. "He stepped into the seat and did everything we asked him to and more.

"Ultimately, we were unable to provide him with the right balance, handling and speed he needed to be successful," he added.

"We wish Jeremy nothing but the best for his future."

Sauter returns behind the wheel of the No. 70 car, which he drove last season finishing 30th in the points and putting the entry 33rd in the owner standings, allowing it a guaranteed spot on the field for the first five races of this season.

It is the third time Mayfield has split with a team before the end of the season in as many years. In 2006 Ray Evernham's team released him after 21 events and last year he left Bill Davis Racing shortly before the end of the season to join Haas CNC Racing.