Convert numbers entered into a date

Use the formula

=SUBSTITUTE(A1," ","/")

To make the data "look" right.

Then copy the result and paste special, values only, into a new column.

Then use the "Text to Columns" feature in the data tab of the ribbon and immediately click finish.

You will end up with valid dates that excel will recognize. It is inelegant and a cloogey, but it appears to work.