With Ty Majeski moving up to the No. 88 truck after Matt Crafton‘s recent retirement, ThorSport Racing must now find a new driver for their No. 98 entry. The search for the next Ty Majeski ThorSport No. 98 replacement has drawn speculation across the NASCAR world, as fans and insiders wonder which rising talent or seasoned veteran will secure this sought-after seat.
Luke Fenhaus: Talented, But Is Now the Right Time?
Luke Fenhaus naturally tops many watchlists thanks to his achievements in late models, including a victory at the Slinger Nationals at age 17 and his title on the CARS Pro Late Model Tour. However, his experience in the truck series has been underwhelming, earning only three top-ten finishes in 13 starts with ThorSport, a figure that reflects both the team‘s current performance struggles and his learning curve. While Fenhaus has strong potential, his driving style appears better matched to the Xfinity Series, which might offer him a smoother transition similar to Dean Thompson’s leap this season. For now, his truck results suggest he could be a future contender but perhaps not the immediate solution for ThorSport’s No. 98.
Kaz Grala: The Proven Winner Seeking Full-Time Return
Kaz Grala injects fresh intrigue into the replacement discussion. The Polish-American driver burst onto the national scene by winning at Daytona in the truck series at just 18. Although his recent career has stalled, with only occasional Xfinity appearances this year, Grala remains a consistent performer across top NASCAR series. If he can secure sponsorship, some believe he is more than deserving of a premium truck seat, having captured top-ten finishes, even as recently as 2023. Grala’s trajectory bears resemblance to other ThorSport alumni like Johnny Sauter and Majeski, who also experienced detours before achieving truck series success. His proven track record and versatility make him a strong contender for the No. 98 ride.
Trevor Catalano: Emerging Star from the Modified Ranks
Those expecting ThorSport to pursue a new talent in the mold of Crafton may look to Trevor Catalano. As the youngest and most promising member of a racing family that includes brothers Tommy, Timmy, Tyler, and mother Amy, Catalano has already left his mark by winning a series event at only 18, fending off a defending champion. His performance in a series dominated by veteran drivers is impressive, yet his results have lacked season-long consistency due to a combination of factors, possibly equipment-related. Ryan Preece, Justin Bonsignore, and Patrick Emerling – all former champions from the modified ranks – have pursued success at national levels with mixed results, lending both opportunity and challenge to Catalano’s prospects. For now, he seems a logical option for a part-time audition in ThorSport’s No. 66 before a full-time promotion.
Corey LaJoie: Veteran Hunger Joins the Mix
Corey LaJoie offers a throwback vibe reminiscent of the truck series’ earlier days, bringing both grit and charisma to the conversation. Known for his spirited approach and candid opinions, LaJoie has thrived under challenging conditions throughout his career, punctuated by flashes of brilliance. Recent performances back this up – he notched back-to-back 5th-place finishes in two 2023 truck appearances with Spire, even as his future in that team’s truck program looks uncertain. In his own words,
I don’t want to drive in front of 12 fans on a Saturday
—Corey LaJoie, Driver. If Spire exits the series, ThorSport could offer LaJoie the perfect platform to chase victories and demonstrate his true potential among NASCAR’s elite.
Derek Kraus: Underrated Standout with Untapped Upside
When considering overlooked drivers, Derek Kraus repeatedly emerges as a deserving candidate. As the 2017 Racing-Reference.info Rising Star of the Year and an ARCA West double champion, Kraus helped elevate MHR’s truck program during years of limited resources, delivering impressive results including 13 top-ten finishes and four poles as a teenager. His aggressive yet skillful maneuvering earned admiration from fans and garage insiders alike. Additionally, Kraus’ recent venture into Xfinity netted three top-tens and a stage win with a struggling Kaulig team, showing continued versatility. The Wisconsin native’s development trajectory, combined with ThorSport’s history of nurturing similar talent, positions Kraus as an ideal selection should the necessary sponsorship support materialize.
ThorSport faces a pivotal decision as it selects Ty Majeski’s successor in the No. 98 truck—a choice that could shape its competitive future. Whether the spot goes to a proven winner like Kaz Grala, an emerging standout such as Trevor Catalano, a tested veteran in Corey LaJoie, a high-ceiling rookie like Luke Fenhaus, or a persevering underdog like Derek Kraus, the outcome will not only impact ThorSport’s fortunes but also continue to spotlight rising drivers aiming for NASCAR’s top ranks. Throughout the process, key names like Grala, LaJoie, Kraus, Fenhaus, and Catalano will remain central to conversations about the next era for both ThorSport Racing and the greater truck series stage.
