Deep in the heart of NASCAR’s postseason, when every lap, pit call, and strategy tweak could define a championship run, Team Penske has quietly begun operating with a new mindset. Even with the drivers already safely through to the next round of the playoffs, they’re playing a different kind of game instead of coasting.
Behind the garage doors, a subtle shift in focus has taken shape, one built not on desperation, but on long-term precision. A team insider and the strategic voice guiding the No. 12 team (Ryan Blaney’s) revealed how Penske plans to use these next two races to their advantage.
How Is Team Penske Approaching the Postseason?
Speaking ahead of the Kansas race, crew chief Jonathan Hassler explained how the team plans to balance preparation and risk.
“We’re definitely in a position where we’re racing for playoff points,” Hassler explained. “These next couple of weeks, I think, this week with tire wear and tires being fairly important. I think the ability to sort of get off strategy at Kansas is pretty limited, but I think once we get to the oval, we’ll have opportunities from a strategy standpoint.”
Now that their place in the Round of 8 is secure, Team Penske’s priorities have evolved. Hassler revealed that the team has moved on from surviving elimination to stacking playoff points, the hidden fuel that powers deeper championship runs. According to him, the team’s approach is to stay aggressive but measured.
“No matter what kind of car we have, that will allow us to get in position to get some more playoff points, so that’s certainly our focus.”
It’s a rare glimpse into the mental and operational chess game that defines NASCAR’s postseason. With so much at stake, most teams are pushing to the limit, but Penske’s edge might come from knowing when not to overreach. Still, Hassler was quick to remind that the team can’t afford to ease off completely.
The seasoned crew chief added, “So we can certainly, let up just a little bit these next couple of weeks, but certainly have to be aware that, playoff points are important for us in that next round and make sure we’re not leaving those on the table as well.”
Team Penske’s strategy is clear as the field inches closer to the championship finale: race smart now, prepare harder for later. As the championship hunt intensifies, it’s not just about speed on the track, but precision in planning off it and using every opportunity now to build a cushion for when it matters most.