Hamlin Races in 700th Start, Finishes Third in Nashville

Denny Hamlin competed in his 700th NASCAR Cup Series start at the Cracker Barrel 400 in Nashville, finishing third after leading 79 laps despite issues with his car's air and water systems. Hamlin's participation was initially uncertain due to his fiancée Jordan Fish's imminent due date, but he ultimately raced and did not require a substitute driver. Ryan Blaney won the event, with Carson Hocevar finishing second. NASCAR confirmed Hamlin would have received a playoff waiver if he had missed the race for the birth of his child, as this is a recognized medical exemption. Hamlin, with two wins this season, currently sits fourth in the championship standings. He also skipped a scheduled tire test at Iowa Speedway for family reasons, with teammate Chase Briscoe substituting for him.