Does the defender have to 'tag' me with the ball in order for me to be out at first base in a baseball game?
In order for you to be out at first base in a baseball game the ball just has to beat you to first base. Once the first baseman catches the ball, if he's on the bag, and you haven't made it to the bag yet, you're automatically out. If he catches the ball and he's off the bag, then you can actually get to the first base first, before he tags the bag, and be safe. However, if he tags you before you get to the bag, even if he hasn't touched the bag yet, then you're still out.