Hal Keller's journey in professional baseball began when he was signed by the Washington Senators. Born on July 7, 1928, in Middletown, Maryland, Keller's early years in baseball were marked by his time as a catcher. He made his Major League debut with the Senators in 1949. Although his playing career in the majors was relatively brief, spanning parts of three seasons from 1949 to 1952, Keller's involvement in baseball extended far beyond his time on the field.

During his stint with the Senators, Keller played in 37 games, primarily as a catcher. His batting average was .204, with one home run and nine RBIs. While his playing career in the majors did not reach great heights, Keller's understanding of the game and his analytical skills would later prove invaluable in other roles within the sport.

After his playing days, Keller transitioned into scouting and front office roles, where he found a niche that suited his talents. He joined the Seattle Mariners organization, where he served as the team's general manager from 1984 to 1985. His tenure as GM was part of a long career in baseball operations, where he was known for his keen eye for talent and his ability to evaluate players.

Keller's influence extended into the scouting realm, where he worked for several organizations, including the Texas Rangers. His work in scouting and player development helped shape the teams he was involved with, as he was responsible for identifying and nurturing new talent. His career in scouting and management demonstrated his deep understanding of the game and his ability to adapt to different roles within the baseball world.

Throughout his career, Keller was respected for his knowledge and his ability to assess players' potential.