Hurst was chosen by the Colorado Rockies in 40th round of the 2003 MLB amateur entry draft. Instead of jumping directly into the minor leagues out of high school, Hurst decided to attend Florida Community College and later finished his collegiate career at the University of Florida (2006-2007). At the end of his 2007 season at Florida, Hurst joined the rookie team of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. He finished the season with the rookie club by posting a 3-3 record, a 5.31 ERA, and 31 strikeouts over 40.2 IP. Last season, Hurst spent the year with Traverse City of the Frontier League where he finished with a 3-3 record with a 3.32 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 43.1 innings of work.