LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Shortstop Edgar Renteria was a late scratch from Thursday night's game against Atlanta because of lower back spasms.

Renteria, 32, was originally on the lineup card in the seventh spot in the order, between Carlos Guillen and Jacque Jones. He took infield and batting practice before the game before experiencing the discomfort.

The setback is not believed to be major, and Renteria probably could have played, but the Tigers decided to exercise caution. Ramon Santiago took Renteria's place in the lineup.

"I don't think so. His back really tightened up right before the game," manager Jim Leyland said following Thursday night's game when asked if Renteria's injury was serious. "During the season he'd probably have played through it, but we didn't want to take a chance."

The Tigers have endured their share of injuries this spring. Pitchers Fernando Rodney, Joel Zumaya and Jordan Tata will open the regular season on the disabled list, along with catcher Vance Wilson.