Part 2/9:
One of the most impactful decisions of Koufax's career unfolded during the 1965 World Series when he chose not to pitch on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. This choice was remarkable not only for its personal significance but also for the ethical statement it made in the sports world, showcasing the importance of faith and values over professional obligations. Critics accused Koufax of placing his personal beliefs before his team’s success. After all, he was an exceptional pitcher for the Dodgers, and Game One of the World Series was the pinnacle of baseball.