Out at first base?

Question
If the first baseman fumbles a ground ball, picks up the ball but touches first base with his mitt (without the ball in the mitt) is the runner out?

Answer
Julie,

It is very difficult to call this an out, as it does not show the fielder has control of the ball.  I would have to be there to see if the player had control of the ball prior to making the play.

However, nine times out of ten, there is no control, and therefore, no out.

-Martin Hoover