In 1998, Wayne had a decent rookie run. He had an average start of 17.8 and an average finish of 22.5. Wayne secured his best weekend of his career when he secured his first career pole in the spring race at Richmond International Raceway. He led 3 laps in that race, and finished a career-best 4th place. Wayne also finished 7th at Bristol Motor Speedway. He also had an outside pole at South Boston and a 5th place qualifying effort at New Hampshire to his credit. However, he often DNQed and the budget was tight, only competing in half the races and finishing 36th in the points.