It began as a shortstop in the Chicago White Sox' system, where he converted to pitching in 1948, and ended in the St. Louis Cardinals' organization.

His tenure with the Red Sox began in July 1954 when, at age 30, he was purchased from the ChiSox' Charleston Senators Triple-A affiliate.

In his three-season major-league career, Hurd posted a 13–10 record with a 3.96 ERA and 11 saves, allowing 177 hits and 97 bases on balls, with 96 strikeouts, in 1861⁄3 innings of work.

He enjoyed success in 1958 as the ace relief pitcher for the American Association and Junior World Series champion Minneapolis Millers.

Pitching for manager Gene Mauch, Hurd posted a 1.65 earned run average in 52 games.