BASEBALL: DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : Daniels Passes His First Test at First

Kal Daniels encountered the first of many tests as a first baseman Monday, and passed it with a shrug.

During the fifth inning, with the Giants leading, 3-0, and Robby Thompson on second base, Royce Clayton hit a grounder to third baseman Lenny Harris.

As soon as Harris threw to first, Thompson dashed for third. Daniels took the throw and threw a strike to shortstop Jose Offerman covering third, completing the double play.

“I think I handled it pretty well,” Daniels said. “I think they were running a set play, but, like any rookie playing first or third . . . you are going to get tested. I’m pretty sure they will come back and (test) again tomorrow.”

Daniels also handled two hard grounders and a bunt well, showing good mobility going to his left, his right and toward home plate.

“I just want to make the routine plays,” said Daniels, who had two hits. “If I can make the routine plays, I can be an adequate first baseman.”

Jay Howell said he has set April 19 as a target date for his return to the active roster. That is the first date he would be eligible to pitch after going on the disabled list April 4 because of bursitis in his right shoulder.

Howell will travel to Vero Beach, Fla., this week to face hitters while the Dodgers are on a seven-game trip to San Diego and Houston. He will return at the end of next week to pitch in a simulated game before rejoining the bullpen.

The Dodgers used four of their five relievers Monday, working John Candelaria 2 1/3 innings, his longest stint since 1990.

Steve Wilson struck out three in his only inning of work Monday, meaning he still has not given up a run in a Dodger uniform. This includes 11 games last season, nine games in spring training and one game this season. . . . Orel Hershiser will make his season debut tonight against the Giants’ Kelly Downs.