Born in Delevan, New York, Isbell was nicknamed Bald Eagle due to his receding hairline, something he was quite sensitive about.

After not being seen in baseball for the next year, Isbell showed up again in 1900 playing for the Chicago White Sox as a full-time first baseman.

Isbell set many offensive World Series records that year, including doubles and extra base hits in a game.

As of 2020[update], Isbell remains the only player to hit four doubles in a single postseason game.

[1] However, he was better known for his outstanding speed, including his 1901 season when he had 52 stolen bases and led the Majors.