My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Maryland (Baltimore City)

Currently I have a 12 month lease for $1400 a month.
My lease is up in 2 months. They have offered me a 12 months renewal at similar terms.

However, If i do not sign a contract and want to be month to month, the rent skyrockets to over $2200.

Would this not be an illegal rent increase (50 percent), regardless of any contract language i signed in my rental agreement last year?

Thank you for your feedback