In the World Series, on October 14, 1965, Sandy Koufax led the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Minnesota Twins in Game 7.

Being on his third start in as many days—seven if he was starting on two days’ rest—made Koufax’s performance all the more remarkable.

According to tradition, Koufax complained of having a sore arm in the first inning, but it didn’t appear to stop him from pitching a complete game, three-hit shutout that helped his team win 2-0 and win their second World Series in three years.

In his 12-year Hall of Fame career with the team, Koufax played in three World Series; however, this one is remembered for a different reason than the others.

Not only did Koufax put on an incredible performance in Game 7, but he will also be remembered for not starting the first game of the series because it was Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

Although some people condemned the move, many others praised it. However, since Koufax was a major factor in the Dodgers’ series victory, the detractors were ultimately quiet.

Over the course of his illustrious career, Koufax hurled four no-hitters, one perfect game, and earned the 1963 National League MVP award. He also won three Cy Young Awards, was a seven-time All-Star, and led the ERA five times.

Sandy Koufax memorial

In the middle of the 2022 season, the Dodgers dedicated a Sandy Koufax statue to their all-time great left-hander in the center field plaza of Dodger Stadium.

Joe Torre and Clayton Kershaw were among the guests who attended the ceremony, which took place close to the Jackie Robinson statue.