MESA, Ariz. – Matt Garza will start the season on the disabled list because of an injured muscle in his side that is preventing the right-hander from throwing, and Jeff Samardzija will be the opening-day starter for the Chicago Cubs.

Garza’s batting-practice session was cut short Feb. 17 because of the injured latissimus dorsi muscle. He rested 10 days and was in the second day of a throwing program on flat ground when he felt more tightness Saturday. He won’t throw for the next week.

“I don’t sit back and let things happen, I make them happen and keep pushing and going,” Garza said Sunday.