You won’t hear Coeur d’Alene High School baseball coach Brian Holgate complain about Scott Ross’ batting average.

Ross is hitting .260, and it’s a facet of his game that must improve especially when he plays in college.

It’s Ross’ other skills, though, that have Holgate beaming. And it’s Ross’ other contributions that should garner him several votes from his teammates for most valuable player.

Ross is a two-year starter at catcher, a position he began playing in high school just last year.

His defensive skills have improved measurably this season and he’s handled the Vikings’ pitching staff well.

He should be a unanimous all-league selection.

Funny thing is, Ross has emerged as CdA’s top pitcher, too, making him a possible first-team pick at two positions.

“A pleasant surprise,” Holgate said. “To be honest I knew he’d do well because he’s a senior and pitched for two years. But the two things that he’s done well is he’s kept the ball down and throws strikes.”

The result is Ross leads in several statistics going into the state-qualifying regional tournament today. He’s tops in record (5-1), ERA (1.56) and strikeouts (14). He was the winner in two key league wins over Lewiston and Lake City that clinched the conference crown.

In his one loss, a 5-1 setback early in the season at Lewiston, he allowed all the runs on four hits in one inning. Since then he’s been untouchable.

“What’s made him a better pitcher is improving as a catcher,” Holgate said. “He knows every batter so when he pitches he knows what to do.”

Ross has been surprised by his success on the mound.

“I’ve always been a pitcher that’s been around the plate, but I’ve never been able to get a lot of outs consistently. That’s been the biggest difference.”

Ross doesn’t see himself as the ace of the staff.

“I’m still a catcher first; it’s the most challenging thing to me,” he said. “Being a good catcher hasn’t come by accident. I take a lot of pride in my defensive skills and calling a game.

“My pitching has been just an added bonus. It wasn’t really expected, but greatly appreciated.”

Regarding his batting average, Ross didn’t try to excuse it, but he did observe: “Catching and pitching takes a lot of my time at practice. I’ve just kind of accepted it, but lately I’ve started to relax and hit well.”

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Photo