Baseball Rule Question: Tagging a Runner - Out or Safe?

Question
We had a play between home and 1st last night that I am not so sure was right.  

The first baseman fielded the ball and as the batter/runner passed the fielder the fielder (with the ball in the glove) tagged the runner with the other (bare) hand.  Is this an out or not?  

Thanks for all your help.  I love this sight  

Answer
Ahhhhh I'm back from vacation!  Good to be back!

Thanks for the question!

I could get all rulebook on you, but the short answer is on a tag play, you can either tag the runner (while not legally in contact with a base) with the ball in hand or with the ball in the glove.  In other words, if I pick up the ball with my left hand glove, then touch someone with my right (bare) hand, it does absolutely nothing?not an out!  Think about it this way... If I hold a hammer in my right hand, and then with my left try to bang in some nails...  I get a hand that looks like it's been dragged on a gravel road.

I hope this answers your question, if not, please reply!