The uncomfortable part about building a contender is that not everyone gets to come along for the next version of it. That’s where the Mariners are right now. They are trying to win the AL West, sure. But they are also playing through a season that could decide how much of this familiar core actually sticks around. Randy Arozarena and J.P. Crawford can reach free agency after 2026. Rob Refsnyder is on a short-term deal. Víctor Robles has a $9 million club option for 2027. Luis Castillo is not in that exact group, but his contract and rotation fit still matter to the broader roster picture. So every part of this season carries a little extra weight. The Mariners are trying to win now, yes. But they are also getting a long look at which familiar players should still be part of what comes next. The Mariners have spent years telling us what they want to be. They want pitching, controlled talent, internal development, and to be careful with money. That approach can work. We have seen proof of concept.…