BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : DODGERS : No Major Lineup Changes Are Expected, Claire Says

Fred Claire, Dodger vice president, said Saturday not to expect major changes in the roster during the final two weeks before opening day.

“I don’t anticipate anything happening,” Claire said. “Of course, that could always change, but right now I think we will go with what we have in the clubhouse.”

Claire said the only two questions that could have forced a trade--shortstop and first base--have been answered.

“One of the things we really wanted to see was Jose Offerman settle in at shortstop, and he has really done that,” Claire said. “That was one of the most significant parts of spring.”

Offerman is batting only .188 but has made only one error in 13 games, a dropped throw.

Claire said he also is pleased by the progress of first baseman Kal Daniels, who has two errors in eight games.

“I wanted to see how Kal would react at first base, how he would take to the position, and he’s done that well,” Claire said. “I’m comfortable with him there.”

Claire said that the bullpen is his only concern, with Jay Howell doubtful for opening day because of a sore shoulder and Rudy Seanez’s sore back causing him to be sidelined for opening day. This means Kip Gross is ensured of making the team, at least for the start of the season.

The Dodger catching is set with Mike Scioscia and Carlos Hernandez, with prospect Mike Piazza waiting at double-A San Antonio.

The infield should consist of Daniels and Todd Benzinger, first base; Juan Samuel, second base; Offerman, shortstop; and Lenny Harris and Mike Sharperson platooning at third base, and Dave Hansen, pinch-hitter.

Dave Anderson will probably be sent to triple-A, where he will be less than 24 hours away if Offerman falters.

The outfield is set with Eric Davis, left field, Brett Butler, center, and Darryl Strawberry, right. Stan Javier and Mitch Webster are the reserves.

The starting rotation is Ramon Martinez, Orel Hershiser, Bob Ojeda, Tom Candiotti and Kevin Gross. Pedro Martinez could be recalled within the first month if anyone falters.

Darryl Strawberry missed the bus to the Dodgers’ game against the Montreal Expos in West Palm Beach Saturday, but he had good reason. Strawberry was ordered to buy chicken for the team by the club’s kangaroo court, but he successfully appealed his case. When he left Dodgertown early Friday afternoon, the travel sheet listed the departure time as 10 a.m. It was later changed to 8:45 a.m. “It was my fault,” said Ben Hines, dugout coach. “I just wrote down the wrong time.” Strawberry arrived in West Palm Beach nearly an hour late, then left before the game because of a stiff back. The Dodgers Strawberry and Davis, suffering from a sore shoulder, can be back in the lineup today. . . . Gross pitched five scoreless innings Saturday to lead the Dodgers to an 8-2 victory. In Gross’ last 10 innings, he has given up no runs and five hits. He said he has been trying a new grip that has worked. “I’m ready for the season to start now,” said Gross, who has been the Dodgers’ best starter with a 3-1 record and 1.59 earned-run-average.