Contract date?

[mattmueller]

I was curious as to when Bill Hall signed a contract with Louisville Slugger - my understanding is that bats from that point on would have a signature on them rather than block lettering. If that is correct, then I guess more specifically when the "signature" variety black finish, M9 model C271s were first ordered by Bill Hall, and is his signature on the bat "Billy" Hall?

Thanks
Matt

[BMH]

My guess is July of 2004, first order with an autograph. He then went back to block lettering since that one order in July.