Hal Irelan, Burnettsville's only Major League Star, was born in Burnettsville on Tuesday, August 5th, 1890. He was the son of T. M. Irelan, a well-known local stock breeder and attended the schools in Burnettsville. In 1914, the 24 year old Irelan played one season as second baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies played 154 games that year, won 74, lost 80 and finished in sixth position.
He went on to enjoy a successful career in the minor leagues as coach, manager and owner. In 1936 he became a scout for the Cleveland Indians; a position he held until his death at age 54 in Indianapolis on July 16th, 1944.
