An engine (14) is coupled to an input member (12) of a hybrid transmission (10), the hybrid transmission (10) operative to transfer power between the engine (14) and a second torque machine (56,72) and an output member (64). A method for controlling the engine (14) includes monitoring an operator torque request, commanding operation of the hybrid transmission (10) in a continuously variable operating range state, determining engine commands comprising a first engine torque request and a second engine torque request based upon the operator torque request and the operation of the hybrid transmission (10), determining an engine torque constraint comprising a maximum engine torque based upon a capacity of the hybrid transmission (10) to react the engine torque, and controlling engine operation based upon the first engine torque request only when the second engine torque request exceeds the engine torque constraint.