CLEVELAND -- The Indians have placed first baseman Nick Swisher on the paternity list after he and his wife welcomed their first child.

The club made the move with Swisher before Tuesday's series opener against Detroit. The first-place Indians, who have won five straight and 18 of 22, lead the Tigers in the AL Central by 2 ½ games.

Infielder Cord Phelps was recalled from Triple-A Columbus to fill the roster opening.

Swisher's wife, actress Joanna Garcia-Swisher, had a girl. He must remain on the paternity list one to three days.

Swisher is in his first season with the Indians, who signed him to a four-year, $56 million free agent contract in December. He is batting .274 with six homers and 16 RBIs.

Phelps went hitless in three games with the Indians this season.