LSU shortstop Josh Smith has missed a majority of the 2018 season due to a back injury. 
Smith’s MRI showed a healthy spine, but he felt discomfort at batting practice on Monday.
“He got after it on Monday. He took some ground-balls, about 50 cuts,” Mainieri said. “As soon as we finished the workout, his back got all tightened up.”
Smith’s doctor ordered nothing but total rest for four weeks following his February 20th injury. Being off his feet and away from the weight room has set his him back.
“We just think it’s a weakness in the muscles,” Mainieri said. “He got a back spasm because they’re just not in shape yet.”
Smith will continue to treat his back soreness while getting back into shape. 
Mainieri isn’t putting a timeline on Smith’s recovery. He is confident that Smith will not be on the field against Tennessee, but he predicts that Smith will be game-ready in the near future. 
The Tigers will begin the weekend series against the Vols on Friday at 7 p.m. at Alex Box and on SEC Network.