Transformers 2 in 2009? Maybe?

Right now Paramount is eyeing 2009 for "Transformers 2." Michael Bay has signed on to do it, but he might ditch it for a pre-strike film. This is a very curious move. If the strike happens making a movie like "Transformers 2" might be considered suicide for Paramount. If they go ahead with it and aren't finished before the strike, this movie might be held up in the middle of its creation for awhile-- Among a number of other possibilities.
No word on when it will go in to pre-production, but I find it interesting that the current plan is for a 2009 release.