Danica......highest finish in IRL overall standings , 5th, from a Team other than Chip Ganassi or Roger Penske. Highest 2009 season finisher from Andretti-Green' s Team of 4 drivers.
http://www.indycar.com/stats/points.php?year=2009
Racing in today's world is a business with numerous considerations, example: Dale JR. Probably will finish 20th or lower, but still brings in the sponsorship and the endorsement dollars. His sponsor AMP has credited their sales increase to Dale.