Hearn attended Elon College and what is now Mississippi State University.

In the minor leagues, Hearn won 22 games for the 1916 New London Planters.

Following the 1913 season, Hearn was a member of John McGraw's world touring team.

In 1928, Hearn was a part-owner, manager, and pitcher for the Piedmont League team in Winston-Salem that won the title.

Hearn served as head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels in 1917 and 1918, and again from 1932 to 1946.