Bell on standby for Hamlin at Michigan

Camping World Truck Series driver Christopher Bell will be on standby for Denny Hamlin this weekend at Michigan International Speedway.

Bell, who drives for Kyle Busch Motorsports, could be called into action if Hamlin needs to return home to North Carolina for the birth of his second child. Thursday was the due date for Hamlin's girlfriend, Jordan Fish.

The 22-year-old Bell has never made a Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series start. However, he does have two Xfinity Series starts and will already be in Michigan for Saturday's truck race, where he will seek his fifth win of the season.

Should Hamlin miss any part of the weekend or the Pure Michigan 400, it would not affect his season. Courtesy of a win last month at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Hamlin is locked into the playoffs.

Regan Smith served as the backup driver for Hamlin last weekend at Watkins Glen.