Should I skip full winterization for my pool in a mild climate?

Probably. If your winters are just a few days below freezing, you don’t need to drain, blow out lines, or shrink-wrap the thing. In mild climates (zone 8+ or coastal), balance chemicals, add a winter algaecide, lower the water below the skimmer, and use a good cover. Run the pump a few hours daily unless a hard freeze is forecast—then run it overnight to prevent ice damage. Draining is overkill and risks liner or wall damage.