Unusual play - Ruling/Interpretation Question

[newmdref]

I had a play occur the other day in a Varsity HS game that I was coaching that was unusual, at least based on my experience. The umpires struggled with the call and I, quite frankly, wasn't sure either what the call should be.

We have a runner on second, two outs, 3-2 count on the hitter. Hitter rips a high line drive down the first baseline. The first baseman, who was playing behind the bag, jumps in an attempt to catch the ball. He catches a piece of the ball directing it up further into the air and toward out of play. He scrambles for the ball and dives in another attempt to catch the ball. Once again it hits off the end of his glove and the ball lands out of play. Ball never came in contact with the ground until it was out of play.

What's the ruling on this play? Thanks in advance for your feedback.