The Seattle Mariners are dead-set on attempting to contend next season, according to CEO John Stanton.

They missed the playoffs this year, but remain committed to expanding their current core.

Stanton has been running the Mariners since its sale was finalized last August and is on board with Jerry Dipoto's approach.

The Mariners opened this season with a $154 million payroll and they already have $113 million committed for 2018.