Antoan Richardson is ignoring Juan Soto.

The Mets’ first-base coach and baserunning strategist is in the hallway of the visiting clubhouse at Petco Park talking to a reporter, and Soto impishly is trying to get him to break character.

What’s the key to the relationship he fosters with players — the one that has those same players routinely heaping praise on a man whose role doesn’t usually get the same recognition as, say, a pitching coach?

“I think . . . ,’’ Richardson begins.

“Is that your meeting?” Soto asks, the picture of innocence.

“ . . . the first part,” Richardson continues, ignoring him.

“I think he’s talking to you,” intones team travel manager Edgar Suero.

“Excuse me, is that your meeting?” Soto asks again.

“Yes,” Richardson replies, not making eye contact.

“Oh, al

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