Mets vice president of scouting Sandy Johnson, who had talked about retiring since the end of the season, has decided to return after heavy lobbying from ownership, team officials confirmed.

SI.com first reported the move earlier this evening.

As well as Johnson, the Mets are still in the market for another high-level aide to embattled GM Omar Minaya. The Mets have already contacted ex-Padres GM Kevin Towers and former Blue Jays GM J.P. Ricciardi about such a position.

Johnson has been with the Mets since 2004 after successful scouting stints with the Rangers and Diamondbacks.